Linux is a free, open source software OS.  As such, all of the underlying source code used with a Linux can be modified and used in any way.  In addition, it can be redistributed to anyone.  As such, it is a great OS to use for personal and business use!

The Development of Linux

The name “Linux” was created from the name of the developer of the program, Linus Torvalds, and the fact that the program is a form of UNIX software.  Torvalds originally wrote the software in 1991, when Torvlds began developing the program as a hobby while attending the University of Helsinki in Finland.  At this time, he was interested in a small UNIX system known as Minix, but wanted to extend it further.  After working on the software for three years, he ultimately released version 1.0 in 1994.  This version is what became known as the Linux Kernel.

Taking a Closer Look at the Linux Kernal

The Linux Kernel is referred to as being the “heart” of every Linux system.  This is because the kernel is the base that is used to develop any Linux operating system.  As a monolithic kernel, Linux is capable of handling networking, process control, file system access and peripheral access.  Device drivers may also be directly integrated with the kernel and much of the program’s functionality comes from its ability to interface with separate projects.

Using the Linux Kernal

Today, there are hundreds of companies, organizations and individuals that have released their own operating systems – all of which are based on the Linux kernel.  In addition, Linux is supported by a number of major corporations within the technology industry.  These include:

Dell
Hewlett-Packard
IBM
Novell
Oracle Corporation
Red Hat
Sun Microsystems

Furthermore, the system is used in a number of different computer hardware.  This includes video game systems, such as PlayStation 2 and PlayStation 3, as well as in mobile phones, embedded devices and routers.

Linux Desktop Applications and Distributions

Linux may also be used for desktop applications as well as for servers.  While there is a lack of Linux ports for some Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X programs in areas such as professional audio and desktop publishing, there are similar applications available for Linux.  In addition, most Linux distributions also include a program that makes it possible to easily browse through all of the free software applications that have been tested and configured for the distribution.  These programs can then be downloaded and installed for free.

In addition to the desktop applications, Linux is also possible to specialize distributions in order to meat different specialized purposes.  Some of these include:

  • Computer architecture support
  • Embedded systems
  • Localization to a region or language
  • Real-time applications support
  • Security
  • Stability
  • Targeting of certain user groups

Some Linux distributions also include only free software.  In fact, there are currently more than three hundred distributions that are actively developed, including software that makes it possible to enjoy playing linux poker online.