LINUX: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide! (2015)
Chapter 1: Linux - The Basics
What is Linux?
Linux is an operating system (OS). It is a type of software that allows users and computer programs to interact with the machine (e.g. access the devices needed to perform certain tasks). The operating system forwards commands from a computer program to, for example, the PC’s processor. The processor conducts the given task, and transmits the data back to the program using the OS. Linux is like other operating systems, such as Windows and Mac OS.
In addition, Linux is an open-source operating system. That means every user may check the software’s code and improve it – no single company is exclusively responsible for its continuous development and support. Businesses participating in the Linux project share research and development expenses with other organizations (e.g. partners, competitors, etc.). This distribution of responsibilities amongst groups and individuals has resulted in amazing software development and efficient working ecosystem.
Linux – One of the Leading Operating Systems
Now, Linux is one of the top players in the OS market. At first, Linux developers focused on networking and basic services. They didn’t create office applications during the OS’s first few years of existence. But now, these developers have created many alternatives to the programs included in Microsoft’s Office Suite. These new computer programs are designed to make Linux a great workstation. Aside from its user-friendly interface, Linux operating systems have Microsoft-compatible office programs such as presentations, spreadsheets, word processors, etc.
In terms of servers, Linux is a stable and efficient platform – it provides trading and database services for businesses such as Amazon and US Post Office. ISPs (internet service providers) like Linux because of its proxy, firewall, and web server capabilities. Finally, arrays of Linux computers were used to create famous motion pictures (e.g. Shrek, Titanic, and many others).
The User Interface of Linux
Whether this OS is difficult to learn depends on the user you are talking to. Experienced users will certainly say no, since Linux is a great operating system for programmers and power-users. In addition, it has been checked and improved by thousands of computer experts.
Linux provides programmers with everything they need: libraries, compilers, and debugging/development tools. These features are included in all standard Linux versions. You will also get the C-compiler for free – unlike most Unix systems that demand licensing fees. All of the manuals and documentations are included, and examples are usually given to help beginners in getting started. Because of this, switching between Unix and Linux is an easy and natural thing.
Linux and Inexperienced Users
Businesses such as SuSE, Mandriva and RedHat have been established, offering packaged distributions of Linux systems for public users. They combined many GUIs (graphical user interface), created and improved by the community, to streamline the usage and management of services and programs. As a modern Linux user, you have all the necessary tools to understand your operating system completely. However, deep knowledge is no longer needed before you can use the Linux system. Even beginners can use this OS with considerable ease.
These days, you can sign in graphically and begin all the needed programs without even entering a single key. Linux system allows you to access the system’s core quickly and easily. Because of this setup, you can become familiar the basics of this OS: Linux is great for beginners and expert users. Inexperienced users don’t need to do difficult stuff, and expert users don’t have to use basic features.
Here’s a screenshot of a Linux spreadsheet:
The Pros and Cons of Linux
In this section, we will discuss the pros and cons of using a Linux operating system.
The Pros
· It is free – If you don’t want to spend anything for your computer’s OS, then this is the best software for you. You don’t have to purchase a CD just to get this powerful operating system. In fact, you can just go online and download Linux - FOR FREE. With this OS, you won’t have to worry about registration fees, update costs, and premium source codes.
· It can be used with any hardware – A merchant who wants to sell a new PC but doesn’t know what type of OS the computer will run, can get a Linux kernel and use it for his hardware. He won’t experience any problems since tutorials and manuals are available for free.
· It is designed to stay running – Just like Unix, Linux systems are designed to keep on running without the need for a reboot. This is the reason why many tasks are performed at night or assigned automatically. This results in improved computer availability during busy periods and better balance in terms of hardware usage. This feature enables Linux to be appropriate in working areas where individuals don’t have the time or resources to manage their machines 24/7.
· It is completely secure and flexible – Linux systems use a security model that is based on Unix (which is famous for its top-notch security). However, Linux is not just good for preventing online hacking attacks: it is also useful for other situations, using the same security standards. Your control station or development computer can be as secure as the firewall itself.
· It is scalable – From Palmtop machines with 2MB of storage to petabyte memory clusters with numerous nodes: include or exclude the correct packages and Linux systems will work for you. You no longer need a supercomputer, since you can use this OS to perform grand things via pre-installed programs. If you prefer to do small stuff, like developing an OS for embedded processors or recycling old programs, Linux can still help you.
· Its debug times are extremely short – Since Linux systems have been designed and tested by thousands of users, problems are often found easily. Sometimes, there are just a couple of hours between the discovery and solving of a glitch.
The Cons
· There are too many versions – The number of Linux systems can be intimidating. However, it also means that all users will find what they need. You don’t have to be a computer expert to find a good version.
In general, Linux users claim that the ideal version is the particular one they are using. So which version should you select? At this point, you shouldn’t worry about that aspect – each release contains virtually the same array of basic features. Aside from the core features, 3rd party programs are included which makes, for instance, TurboLinux more appropriate for small- and medium-sized businesses. Basically, the differences are superficial. The ideal strategy is to try some Linux distributions – unfortunately, not everyone has the time and resources for this.
What you can do is get some advice from other users through online forums and discussion boards. You may run a Google search for the Linux systems you want and scan the search results for a relevant forum. Those online forums will give you the information you need (e.g. pros and cons of specific Linux versions).
· Linux may be confusing for inexperienced users – It is true that, in its core, Linux is less user-friendly than other operating systems. Because of its fame, significant effort has been exerted to make Linux systems easier to use, particularly for beginners. More data is being provided on a regular basis to help Linux users become familiar with the intricacies of this OS.
· Its trustworthiness is questionable – Thousands of people have worked on this OS, which makes users question its reliability and trustworthiness. In addition, this type of system is provided for free: nowadays, people are suspicious of free stuff.