When it comes to desktops and laptops, the overwhelming majority of users across the world either run some flavour of Windows (ranging from XP to Windows 10) or Mac OS X. According to Net Applications, that’s approximately 90.6 percent Windows and 7.6 percent Mac. So if you’re wondering what comes in third place in that sliver of a 1.8 percent, the answer is Linux.

So what is Linux all about and where did it come from? Linux is a term broadly used to refer to the collection of operating systems belonging to the GNU/Linux distributions (see box on the history of GNU/Linux.) A distribution is basically an operating system that is based on a variation of the GNU/Linux core.

Even though Linux is nowhere as prevalent or visible as Windows or Mac, it can be surprisingly easy-to-use while offering all the power and convenience needed to run a desktop or laptop. Also, it is often much lighter on system resources, making it ideal for running on an older computer you’d otherwise be considering junking.

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Before venturing into installing and using Linux, be mindful of these key considerations:

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There are many different distributions to choose from: From distributions that look and feel a lot like Windows to ones that are specifically built to work in enterprise environments, there are numerous Linux distributions to choose from. This variation in application is also accompanied by a range in complexity, with some being as easy to install as Windows, while others requiring a more intimate understanding of Linux workings. A good distro to start with is Linux Mint: it is simple to install and use, with plenty of the features you’d expect in a modern operating system. Linux has a unique file system: The file system is a core operating system component that handles the creation, storage, retrieval and maintenance of files and directories in the operating system. Just as Windows uses FAT or NTFS, and Mac OS X uses a system called HFS Plus, Linux-based operating systems use the Filesystem Hierarchy Standard (FHS). The first thing of note: Linux has no concept of letter drives (C drive, D drive etc.) Everything is located under the ‘/’ (root) directory. Here you will find directories that contain files for booting up, the home location, libraries for launching files and more. Everything in Linux--from a hardware component like a DVD drive to a wireless adapter--is a file that needs to be mounted within the root directory. It helps to be aware of this particular concept while installing and using Linux. Also read Linux, Mozilla smartphones likely to hit markets this year Installing software is a lot like the mobile world: Much as Android and Apple have applications installed from online ‘stores’, in Linux applications are installed from ‘repositories’. Repositories are collections of programs ranging from video playback apps to office tools to games. These repositories are curated by managed by individuals and groups who safeguard their authenticity and functionality. While it is possible to manually install applications in Linux, it isn’t recommended. Consider installing in a Virtual Machine, or on a computer that isn’t your primary workstation: Modern-day Linux distributions will, for the most part, install and work practically flawlessly. However there are instances--especially at initial setup--that may require troubleshooting. So if you aren’t familiar with Linux, it’s best to try it out first on a computer that isn’t your primary workstation. The applications are available, though not always the ones you’re accustomed to on Windows or Mac: While there is a growing number of applications and games that have Linux versions, many popular programs like Microsoft Office or the Adobe suite aren’t available for it. However there are alternatives that often deliver matching functionality, but you’ll need to be put the elbow grease into locating and learning them. If there are specific applications you absolutely need, ensure that they are available for Linux; even though these could be used via emulators inside Linux, it isn’t always reliable. Of course, this is important only if you’re considering switching completely to Linux. You can also choose to retain your existing operating system by installing Linux alongside it. With this, each time you boot you’ll be presented a menu letting you choose the OS to boot into. This is recommended if you need familiarity of your earlier OS, or if there you use specific applications that aren’t available on Linux.

The prospect of a robust, capable and free operating system is compelling indeed. Go ahead and give Linux a shot: you may just find that it fits the bill. Stay tuned for upcoming articles in this Open Source series, and feel free to discuss with us on Twitter using #dnaTech.