Sunday, May 20, 2012

Linux, an Emerging Operating System

Linux is a general term used to refer to Linux kernel based operating systems. The “Linux” name is derived from the original creator of the Linux kernel in 1991 – Linus Torvalds.  Linux operating system is predominantly known for use in server machines, but can also be installed on a wide array of computer devices and hardware like embedded system devices, mobile devices like phones and watches, on supercomputers, and recently on personal computers, desktop and laptops.

Linux is under the GNU-GPL licenses, where it’s underlying source codes can be used, modified, and redistributed freely. Linux is a known example of free or open source software.

Linux is an emerging software product with great potential that can rival leading products such that of Microsoft. Statistically, in 2008 alone, sixty percent (60%) of web servers run on Linux as against the forty percent (40%) on Windows. This significant fraction of Linux usage in the server market is overshadowed by its weak hold on the desktop market. On the same year, only 8-12% of desktops run of Linux while a huge 85% is held by Microsoft Windows operating systems.

Development

Linux is free and open source software and is the most widely used software in this category. Its development is inspired by the copyleft principle or reciprocity, wherein any work product derived from any copyleft work product should be copyleft in itself. Each software product or packages are created and maintained independently by many individuals, commercial entities, volunteer organizations, and teams in a collaborative manner. Each work product is then collected and grouped as a Linux distribution. This process ensures that inside the Linux distribution, all work products are coherent with each other and are based on same underlying system or core for compatibility. The Linux kernel is managed and maintained by a single team lead by Linus Torvalds himself.

Advantages

  • Linux is basically free. The cost is such a big factor can never be undermined in selecting an operating system. With Linux, there is no need to spend money for licenses, and a wide variety of Linux based software applications are available for download in the internet for free.

  • Linux exhibits high performance. Linux are known to handle large numbers of users at the same time without noticeable performance deterioration or slowing.

  • Stability. Linux can run uninterrupted on hundreds of days without freezing or slow down. No periodic rebooting needed and no memory leaks over long and continuous run time.

  • Easy network set up. Linux has strong network support with functionalities like network back-ups, network set-up, and other reliable network functionalities.

  • Linux is secure. Since Linux is free, a variety of packages can be downloaded for free in the internet without a need of credit card numbers, personal information, and purchase transactions. Additionally, Linux provides inherent walls and access permissions to combat viruses and unauthorized access.

  • Linux is an open source. For technical users and developers, it is very handy to have the opportunity to modify the operating system codes for specific applications you want to develop or examine the code for better understanding and knowledge.

  • Compatibility. Linux can process all known file formats and can run all UNIX packages.

  • Multitasking capability. Linux allows simultaneously running a variety of tasks without slowing down other work processes running.

  • Backward compatibility with old computers. Linux can run and salvage old computers with barely any memory or processing power. Linux can put them in use again.

  • Choice. Linux offers a wide range of choices with almost every facet of the operating system where you can choose the best options for your needs with same core functionalities.


Disadvantages

  • Familiarity. The use of Linux operating system may need a relatively deep understanding. Such can be obtained with patience and drive to figure things on your own. With our exposure to other leading operating systems, we are used to having things done for us.

  • Up to date compatibility. It is always a known disadvantage of the Linux system to be somewhat behind in terms of compatibility with new hardware. Because it is free in nature, it lacks corporate backing and funding in comparison to other operating systems.

Take advantage of your visit to www.ubuntuchannel.org by bookmarking or sharing us below.