Linux operating system is one of the most popular today. Linus Torvalds started its development in 1991. The idea behind this operating system came from Unix. This is another popular operating system developed in AT&T laboratories in the 1970s. Unix was aimed at small computers. Such computers were machines that did not require an entire air-conditioned hall and cost less than 1000,000 dollars. In addition, they could easily be lifted by several people.
At that time, cheap Unix was unavailable on personal office computers, mostly based on the platform x86. So Linus Torvalds, a young student at the time, began implementing an operating system like Unix that would run efficiently on this platform.
Main Advantages of the Linux Operating System
The principles of Linux and its basic ideas are the same as Unix. But the difference is that Linux is a completely independent project. It does not contain a Unix code. Linux is not supported by a single company, but by a community of famous programmers worldwide. Since it is distributed free of charge, everyone can change the permissions and use it without restriction.
Students are among the primary users of Linux. They choose this operating system for its stability and pre-installed applications. Writing capstone papers on Linux OS is very easy. The user interface is simple and intuitive, so you can be sure that you will not have any problems, even if you are a beginner. In case of difficulties, you can always get your custom capstone project from professional writers online.
In general, the advantages of Linux OS include the following:
- Reliable and steady work;
- Not susceptible to viruses;
- Effectively manages multitasking and priorities, and background tasks do not interfere with interactive work;
- Allows to easily integrate the computer into local and global networks, including the Internet;
- Effectively works with networks based on Novell and MS Windows;
- Has a rich set of tools for developing application programs of any degree of complexity;
- Provides an opportunity to try your hand at development, organize communication and collaboration via the Internet with any of the developers of the Linux OS, and contribute by becoming a system co-author.
What Are Linux Distributions?
A Linux distro is a package that includes the Linux kernel and a set of programs maintained by a community of users or a company. The distribution aims to optimize the kernel and programs running in the Linux operating system for specific use cases or groups of users.
Distributions usually comprise their own software installation and administration tools. Because of this, some distributions are primarily used for desktop environments, while others are typically used for server-side work to make the best use of available resources.
The Most Popular Linux Distros and Their Application Features
Today, there are a fairly large number of Linux distributions. Their uses vary. Consider a short description of the most popular distros in the following paragraphs.
Debian GNU/Linux
The Debian distro is the largest distribution based on Debian. Ian Murdoch created the project in 1993. Today, a great number of volunteers around the world are working on the project. Debian tries to provide a reliable and trustworthy operating system. It promotes Richard Stallman’s concept of an efficient operating system that respects the user’s freedom to run, learn, distribute, and enhance the software. That’s why it doesn’t offer proprietary software pre-installed.
Ubuntu
Another Debian-based distribution worth mentioning is Ubuntu. It was created in 2004 by Mark Shuttleworth and his team. The goal of the project was to develop a Linux desktop environment that is simple and intuitive to use. Ubuntu’s mission is to provide free and efficient software for everyone around the world and reduce the overall price of professional services. The distro has a planned release every six months with long-term customer support every 2 years.
Red Hat
Red Hat is a Linux distro created and maintained by a software development company of the same name. It was created in 1994 and changed to Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) in 2003. It is provided to world-renowned companies as a secure enterprise solution supported by Red Hat and bundled with the software.
This solution aims to facilitate using Linux in various professional server environments. Some components require subscription or licensing.
Fedora
RHEL is optimized for various server environments. The Fedora Project was established in 2003 and produced a Linux distro aimed at personal desktop computers. It is progressive and adapts quickly to machine learning trends. As a result, Fedora is often considered a test bench for new technologies that may eventually be included in RHEL. Red Hat-based distros use the rpm package format.
openSUSE
SUSE was created in Germany in 1992 and is known as the main Unix service provider. SUSE Linux first appeared in 1994. A few years later, SUSE Linux has become primarily known for its YaST configuration tool. It allows administrators to efficiently install and configure software and hardware and configure networks and servers. The openSUSE project was released by SUSE in 2004. It allowed users and developers to develop and test the system. The distro is freely available for download.
Concluding Remarks
There are many Linux distributions today. Some of them are based on Ubuntu or Red Hat, and others are designed to refine specific features of the system or hardware. There are distros built with specific functionality (such as QubesOS and Kali Linux). There are also distros built specifically for embedded system components and even smart devices. Therefore, be sure that you will definitely find what you are looking for.
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