What is Linux?

Linux is a free computer operating system authored by a community of open-source developers. Linux serves as an alternative to the more well-known Windows or OS/X. Unlike these mainstream operating systems, Linux is a crowd-sourced project that anyone can alter. Technically, Linux is a "kernel", or the fundamental component of the operating system. The system can alternatively be installed to run alongside Windows and share the drive. While other operating systems protect their code from outside interference, Linux welcomes collaboration. This spirit has earned Linux a reputation as a breeding ground for innovation. Linux has developed features that were eventually adopted by major operating systems.

Linux is based on the earlier Unix system, which used the principle of modular design. In this type of system, the OS provides simple tools, while shell scripting and command language combine to perform complex workflows. Linux supports a number of languages, including PHP, Perl, Ruby, Python and others. This diversity gives developers the freedom to write code in whatever language they feel most comfortable.

Linux follows the free and open source software development and distribution model and is available through Linux distributions called "distros". No purchase is required to use, distribute or modify Linux. Currently, more than 300 modified versions (distros) of Linux are available with new versions continuously being created. Some of the most popular distros include Debian and Redhat, each of which has their own spin-offs. Though originally developed as an operating system for specific Intel computers, Linux is now the most frequently ported, or uploaded, of all computer software platforms. More than 95 percent of the world’s 500 fastest computers utilize some form of a Linux operating system. Linux usage has experienced slow growth over the last decade, but as a new generation of developers gets their hands on this system, expect more users to get on board.