What is the Linux Operating System?

Congratulations! If you’re reading this, your cell phone or computer has a functioning operating system. In fact, if you’ve navigated to this page from an Android device, you can thank the Linux operating system, specifically, for getting you here.

So, what exactly is Linux? Answering the question posed in this article’s title begins with defining the term “operating system.”

An Introduction to Operating Systems

An operating system—or OS—is a platform responsible for managing communication between the software and hardware in our technology. Like Windows OS or MacOS, the Linux operating system helps us perform common tasks across various devices, including cell phones, computers, televisions, and even automobiles. Linux is one of the most popular operating system platforms in the world because of its reliability and flexibility, a credit to its open-source nature.

Computer Programs in Erie

Interested in learning more about open-source operating systems like Linux? Perhaps you’re considering a career in computer programming? Keep reading. By the end of this article, you will not only understand how Linux works and what it is used for, but you will also discover how you can apply your newfound knowledge in one of our computer and web design training programs.

What is Linux?

Unlike Windows or MacOS, which are controlled by singular companies, Linux is an open-source operating system. Initially conceived by Linus Torvalds in 1991 as the Linux kernel, the platform’s original core has since evolved into its current iterations thanks to global collaboration between thousands of developers and web programmers.

From the moment you press the power button on your devices, you experience the product of that collaboration. Linux manages every aspect of your computing experience, overseeing its hardware and allocating resources to ensure everything runs smoothly. It also affords multiple desktop environments, meaning you can customize your computer’s look and feel to your personal preferences.

For aspiring tech professionals, learning Linux is more than a skill—it’s your gateway to a fulfilling career in a variety of in-demand industries.

What Is Linux Used For?

Linux is responsible for driving critical infrastructure across numerous industries. From managing complex cloud services and container technologies to powering servers, supercomputers, and embedded systems, Linux is the backbone of modern computing. Its versatility extends to process scheduling, peripheral device management, file systems, and network services, making it an essential technology for organizations seeking reliable and adaptable computing solutions.

Why Use Linux?

As an open-source operating system, Linux enables unprecedented collaboration and innovation, providing users with:

• Flexibility — allowing for customization across diverse computing environments.
• Security — rapid vulnerability patching to keep your valuable information safe.
• Variety — vast software ecosystem with thousands of available applications.
• Value — the absence of expensive licensing fees makes it extremely cost-effective.

How Does Linux Differ From Other Operating Systems?

Linux’s collaborative philosophy sets it apart from other operating systems as a truly democratic and innovative operating system. Unlike proprietary platforms, Linux’s open-source kernel architecture allows for complete transparency and customization, enabling a global community of developers to continuously improve the system. Linux also supports a diverse range of hardware—from tiny, embedded devices to massive supercomputers—and provides centralized, user-friendly software distribution through community-driven management systems.

How is the Linux Operating System Used?

Linux is utilized across multiple critical computing domains, functioning as a:

• Server OS: Powering web, database, file, and email servers with exceptional performance and reliability.
• Desktop OS: Providing a free, customizable personal computing environment.
• Headless Server: Managing remote networking devices without requiring a graphical interface.
• Embedded Device OS: Functioning in appliances, automotive systems, and network devices.
• Network OS: Supporting routers, switches, and domain name system servers.
• Software Development Platform: Hosting critical open-source development tools like Git, Vim, and Emacs.
• Cloud Computing OS: Enabling cloud instances across major computing providers.

The true power of Linux lies in its incredible configurability. With this operating system, organizations and developers can optimize their distributions for specific needs. Whether prioritizing networking performance, computational speed, hardware compatibility, or resource-constrained environments, Linux is a cornerstone of modern technological infrastructure.

Linux Distributions

Tailored for a variety of different devices, there are over 600 Linux distributions available. Some of the most popular distributions include:

Linux Components and Terminology

• Applications: Software installed during and after Linux installation, offering thousands of options for various computing needs.
• Bootloader: Manages the computer’s boot process and initiates the Linux kernel, supporting multi-operating system configurations.
• Daemons: Background programs that handle specific service requests, such as web server operations.
• Desktop Environment: A collection of applications and user interface controls that define how users interact with the Linux system.
• Encryption: Encryption secures data by converting it into an unreadable format. Linux provides robust tools for protecting information at rest and in transmission.
• File System: Linux supports multiple file systems like ext4, XFS, and Btrfs, each offering unique features for organizing and storing data on storage devices.
• Init System: The first process launched after kernel loading, responsible for initializing the system and spawning other essential processes.
• Kernel: The core of the Linux system that directly interfaces with hardware, managing network access, process scheduling, peripheral devices, and file system services.
• Linux Distribution: An operating system or software package designed around the Linux kernel.
• Open-Source: Open-source philosophy allows users to view, modify, and distribute source code, driving Linux’s collaborative and innovative development.
• Process: A process in Linux represents a running program instance, with unique identification and associated system resources.

How the Linux Operating System Works

Linux operates through its modular design centered on the Linux kernel. The kernel remains the universal component across all Linux distributions, providing a flexible foundation for diverse computing needs.

The Linux operating system functions by:

• Loading and booting the kernel.
• Managing system input and output.
• Initializing processes for various functions like networking, command-line interactions, and desktop applications.

Start Your Career in an In-Demand Industry

As we’ve learned, Linux provides a flexible foundation for diverse computing needs, making it integral to the success of companies everywhere in today’s digital world. The Erie Institute of Technology (EIT) provides marketable skills aspiring IT professionals can use to jumpstart their careers with these employers. Industries everywhere rely on people like those we train in our Computer and Design Programs to implement and manage Linux operating systems.

Become a part of continued open-source innovation. At EIT, we prepare students and professionals for IT Specialist careers by providing hands-on training in accredited computer programs in Erie. Request more information or register today, and get ready to join a workforce of IT professionals who directly impact companies’ bottom lines by optimizing their digital infrastructures.

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