Linux

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Linux

Linux is a family of Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel. The kernel itself is a free and open-source kernel first released by Linus Torvalds on September 17, 1991.

While technically just the kernel, the term "Linux" is most commonly used to refer to a complete Linux operating system, which bundles the kernel with system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Linux is known for its stability, security, flexibility, and its widespread use in servers, embedded systems, and mobile devices, as well as a growing presence on desktop computers.

History

The Linux story began in 1991 when Linus Torvalds, a Finnish student, announced his project to create a new kernel. His goal was to build a Unix-like kernel that could run on personal computers using the new Intel 386 processor, as an alternative to the educational MINIX OS. Torvalds released the initial code under a permissive license.

However, a kernel alone does not make a complete operating system. A functional OS also requires fundamental utilities and applications like shells, compilers, file manipulation tools, etc. The GNU Project, started by Richard Stallman in 1983, had been developing a comprehensive set of free software components intended to build a complete Unix-like OS, but lacked a kernel (their own kernel, GNU Hurd, was under development).

The combination of the Linux kernel with the mature and freely available GNU utilities created a complete and functional free operating system. This combination became the basis for the first "Linux distributions". These distributions packaged the kernel, GNU tools, libraries, and other system software together, making it easier for users to install and use Linux. Early examples of distributions include Hoo-Gee-Woo (HJW) Linux and SLS. The first widely popular distribution was Slackware, released in 1993, soon followed by others like Debian and Red Hat Linux (which later evolved into Red Hat Enterprise Linux and Fedora).

The development of Linux has been a global collaborative effort, involving contributions from thousands of developers worldwide, coordinated through various open-source projects and organizations.

Key Characteristics

Linux is characterized by several core aspects that stem from its design and free and open-source nature:

  • **Open Source:** The source code for the Linux kernel and most software in Linux distributions is freely available under licenses like the GPL. This allows users to view, modify, and distribute the code, fostering transparency and community collaboration.
  • **Unix-like:** Linux follows the design principles of Unix, including concepts like multi-user and multitasking capabilities, a hierarchical file system, the use of a command-line shell, and a focus on small, modular programs that can be combined using pipes. However, Linux was written from scratch and does not contain any original Unix source code.
  • **Flexibility and Customization:** Due to its modular design and open nature, Linux can be customized to a high degree. Users can choose from various distributions, desktop environments, window managers, and countless software packages to build an OS) tailored to specific needs, from minimal server installations to feature-rich workstations.
  • **Stability and Reliability:** Linux distributions, particularly those with LTS (Long-Term Support) releases, are known for their stability and robustness, making them well-suited for servers that need to run continuously for long periods.
  • **Security Model:** Linux inherits Unix's security model based on user and group permissions. The open nature allows security vulnerabilities to be identified and patched relatively quickly by the community. Features like SELinux and AppArmor provide additional security layers.
  • **Package Management Systems:** Linux distributions typically use package management systems (like APT, DNF, Pacman) that automate the process of installing, updating, configuring, and removing software. Software packages are stored in online repositories, simplifying software maintenance and security updates.
  • **Command Line Interface (CLI):** While most distributions offer GUIs, the powerful command-line interface and scripting capabilities are central to Linux administration and automation, especially in server environments.

Components of a Linux Distribution

A complete Linux distribution includes more than just the Linux kernel. It typically comprises:

  • **The Linux Kernel:** The core of the OS, managing resources and providing an interface between hardware and software through system calls.
  • **System Software and Libraries:** This includes the GNU core utilities (like bash, ls, cp, mv, rm), system libraries (like the GNU C Library - glibc), and other essential software that provides the basic functionality of the [[Operating system|OS)]. The init system (commonly systemd) is also part of this, managing the boot process and system services.
  • **Package Management System:** Tools and formats for organizing, installing, updating, and removing software packages from repositories.
  • **User Interface:** This can be a CLI (with a shell like Bash) or a GUI provided by a windowing system (like X.Org or Wayland) and a desktop environment (like GNOME, KDE Plasma, XFCE).
  • **Applications:** Various end-user or server applications (like web browsers, office suites, web servers, database servers, development tools).

Linux vs. GNU/Linux

There is a naming controversy regarding whether to call the operating system "Linux" or "GNU/Linux". The GNU Project argues that since Linux distributions typically combine the Linux kernel with a significant amount of GNU software, the term "GNU/Linux" is more accurate to acknowledge the GNU Project's contributions to the complete [[Operating system|OS)]. Most users and the media generally use the term "Linux" to refer to the complete OS.

Relation to Unix

Linux is a Unix-like operating system. It shares many features and design philosophies with the original Unix, but it does not use any of the original Unix source code. It was independently developed to adhere to POSIX and other Unix standards, allowing software written for Unix to often compile and run on Linux with minimal changes.

Popular Use Cases

Linux is deployed across a vast range of devices and environments:

  • **Servers:** Linux is the dominant OS for servers worldwide, powering most of the websites, online services, and cloud computing infrastructure. Its stability, security, remote administration capabilities, and open-source nature make it ideal for server roles.
  • **Embedded Systems:** Linux is widely used in embedded systems due to its flexibility, small size, and ability to run on various hardware architectures. Examples include routers, smart TVs, automotive infotainment systems, and industrial control systems.
  • **Mobile Devices:** Android, the most popular mobile OS, is based on the Linux kernel.
  • **Desktops:** While having a smaller market share than Windows or macOS, Linux distributions are popular among developers, IT professionals, and users who value customization, free software, and control over their system.

Licensing and Community

The Linux kernel is licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL). This license ensures that anyone can run, study, share, and modify the kernel, provided they release their modifications under the same license. Most other software in Linux distributions is also distributed under various free and open-source licenses.

The development of Linux is driven by a large, global community of developers, companies, and enthusiasts who collaborate openly, contributing code, documentation, and support. This community model is a key factor in Linux's continuous improvement and rapid response to issues.

See Also

References

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