What is Linux and why is it so popular?. In this beginner's guide, we'll provide an introduction to Linux and explore its unique features that make it different from other operating systems. In the previous post, we discussed why to learn Linux and the scope of Linux. In this post, we’ll discuss the following
points
1.
What is Linux?
2.
Linux Key Features
3.
What are Linux Distributions
4.
Popular Linux Distributions
5. Comparison of Linux with the Windows and macOS
6. Real World Use Cases of Linux
7.
How to Choose the Right Distro
8. Ready to Try Linux
1. What is Linux?
Linux
is an open-source kernel based operating system originally created by Linus
Torvalds in 1991. The kernel is the core component that manages communication
between hardware and software. A complete Linux operating system commonly
called a Linux distribution or distro, combines the Linux kernel with system
utilities, libraries, package management tools and applications. It runs on
desktops, servers, mobile phones, and more. Android is built on top of the
Linux kernel! The Linux kernel is maintained by a global community of
open-source experts. Its security capabilities and interface attract the users.
Linux source code is open for inspection, modification, and redistribution in
the community. It is compatible with almost every computer platform, including X86,
ARM, and SPARC, considered one of the most supportive operating systems.
Linux Kernel vs Linux Distribution
The Linux kernel is the core software responsible for managing hardware, memory, processes, devices and other low-level system operations. A Linux distribution packages the Linux kernel together with system utilities, libraries, package managers, applications and other software to provide a complete operating system.
For example, Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) are Linux distributions. They use the Linux kernel but provide different software, package management systems, release models and administration tools.
To learn the benefits of Linux and opportunities it provides to the career in IT industry, the detailed guide about Linux benefits should be read Why Learn Linux – Benefits, Career Scope and Future Opportunities.
2. Linux Key Features
A common question about Linux
is, Why is Linux so popular and attractive. The answer is simple: Linux has
rich features that make it distinguish itself from other operating systems.
That’s the reason professionals and even regular users love Linux. The list of
Linux features is so large that we cannot cover all in this post but we will
discuss some of the most important features here.
- Security
- Encryption
- Performance
- Customization
- Portability
- Multitasking
Security
One of the top features is
Linux security. Built-in permission control provides a safeguard against
malicious activity. Linux has the principle of least privileges, user permissions
and access controls to ensure integrity, confidentiality and availability of
data and resources. The installation of regular security updates and patches helps
to solve known vulnerabilities.
Linux also provides the powerful tools to manage the users, permissions, and groups for the secure system administration. Learn how this works in our guide on
Managing Users and Groups in Linux.
Linux
provides a strong security model based on user permissions, ownership, access
controls, process isolation, and other security mechanisms. However, Linux
systems can still be vulnerable to misconfiguration, software vulnerabilities,
weak credentials and malware, so regular updates and appropriate security
controls are important.
Encryption:
Linux
supports encryption on different levels. LUKS (Linux Unified Key Setup) is
commonly used for encrypting block devices and disk partitions while file-level
encryption can be implemented using filesystem and operating system features
depending on the Linux distribution and use case. Encryption helps to protect
data if storage devices are lost, stolen or accessed without authorization.
Customization:
Linux allows users customization of desktop environments, Terminals and
kernel to their specific needs and requirements. This consists of changing
themes, icons and window managers. It gives users control to manage their
workspace efficiently.
Performance:
Linux
is prominent for its efficient resource management and high performance even in
on old hardware. Linux can make efficient use of available system resources,
and system performance can often be improved through appropriate configuration,
workload optimization, and hardware upgrades when necessary. Updates and
patches also increase the performance of the Linux system.
The Processes are the programs running inside the operating system. System administrators often monitor and control them using the Linux tools. Learn more in our tutorial on
Linux Process Management for Beginners.
Portability:
Linux operating system runs smoothly and flawlessly on a variety of
hardware platforms. Without any compatibility issues, users can run the Linux operating
system on any device. It provides the same functionality on both low-end and
high-end hardware. The best thing is that it supports different environments without
any hassle.
Multitasking
Linux is known for its multitasking. It can switch between different
tasks quickly, showing the illusion that they are running simultaneously. The Linux
kernel can manage this by scheduling, which decides which process gets the CPU
at any given time. Multiusers and multitasking is one of the best features of the Linux system.
3. What Are Linux Distributions?
A
Linux distribution (or distro) is a complete operating system environment built
around the Linux kernel. It typically includes system utilities, libraries,
applications, documentation and a package management system. Different Linux
distributions have different choices about software, release cycles, desktop
environments, security policies and administration tools.
These distributions are
built for different purposes and environments. Each distribution as Fedora,
Ubuntu, RedHat, Linux Mint, Debian, SUSE, has its
significance. Different distros are created for different needs —
beginners, advanced users, servers, hacking, gaming, etc.
4. Popular Linux Distributions
Here is some famous distros you should know about:
4.2 Debian
4.3 Red hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) 4.4 Fedora
4.5 Kali Linux
4.1 Ubuntu
- Beginner-friendly
- Good for desktops and laptops
- Huge community and documentation
- Easy to install and use
- Long-term support is available
- The software repository is easily available
- Automatically updates the features
- Easy to update patches and upgrades
4.2 Debian
- Stable and secure
- Used as the base for Ubuntu
- Excellent for servers
- Mostly used by developers
- Advanced Package tools for package management
- 100% freely available
- Massive access to online repositories
- Significantly used for LAMP stack
4.3 Red hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)
- User-friendly and robust
- Focus on enterprise solutions
- Popular for automation and security
- Scalable for various environments
- Large community support
- Support variety of applications and workloads
4.4 Fedora
- Cutting-edge technology
- Backed by Red Hat
- Popular among developers
- Strong community help
- Supports variety of applications and tools
- Suitable both for desktop and server
4.5 Kali Linux
- Debian base linux distribution
- Variety of pre-installed security tools
- Supports over 600 pre-installed tools for
penetration testing
- Kali Linux supports multiple languages
- Supports different hardware architectures
- Built for penetration testing and cybersecurity
5. Comparison
of Linux with the Windows and macOS
| Feature |
Linux |
Windows |
macOS |
| Source Availability |
Open-source kernel and many open-source components |
Primarily proprietary |
Primarily proprietary, with some open-source components |
| Desktop Environment |
Multiple desktop environments available |
Windows desktop environment |
macOS desktop environment |
| Common Uses |
Servers, cloud, development, desktops, embedded systems |
Desktop computing, business applications, gaming, development |
Desktop computing, creative work, development |
| Customization |
Extensive customization options |
More controlled customization |
More controlled customization |
| Package Management |
Distribution-specific package managers |
Microsoft Store, installers, and package-management tools |
App Store, installers, and package-management tools |
Linux Desktop vs Linux Server
Linux can be used both as a desktop operating system and as a server platform. A Linux desktop commonly includes a graphical desktop environment such as GNOME or KDE Plasma, while Linux servers are often managed through the command line and remote administration tools such as SSH.
The underlying Linux kernel is the same type of core technology, but the installed software, configuration, services, and management approach can be very different depending on the purpose of the system.
6. Real World Use Cases of Linux
Linux is actually used in areas as such:
- Web
servers (Apache, Nginx)
- Cloud
infrastructure (AWS, GCP)
- Programming
environments
- Embedded
systems
- IoT
devices
7. How to Choose the Right Distro?
Ask yourself:
- Are you a beginner? → use Ubuntu or Linux Mint
- Want full control and learning? → use Arch or Debian
- Into cybersecurity? → Use Kali Linux
- Need a powerful dev environment? → use Fedora or openSUSE
8. Ready to try Linux?
Start with a distro as Ubuntu
or Linux Mint, and explore from there. Only 2% use Linux...? Think again. Linux is not just used on
desktop computers. It plays a major role in servers and cloud systems and is
also found in containers, networking devices, embedded systems, supercomputers,
and many other types of technology. Android also uses the Linux kernel as part
of its underlying architecture. Because Linux is used in so many areas and
having a good understanding of it can be especially useful for people working
in system administration, cloud computing, DevOps, cybersecurity and software
development.
Linux is widely used for the networking and server management. To understand the network fundamentals in the Linux environments read our
Linux Basic Networking for Beginners Guide.
Final Thoughts
Linux is a robust and complete
platform in all aspects and supports a large-scale environment. Linux offers
freedom, flexibility and power whether you’re a beginner or an expert. The
variety of distributions makes it easy to find the one that fits your needs and
fulfills your requirements.
For popular Linux distros like Ubuntu or Mint, or
an advanced user exploring specialized types of Linux distributions, the
advantages of Linux make it an excellent choice for long-term growth in
technology and career opportunities.
Continue to visit Seek Linux for more updates and information.
Aqeel Anwar
Linux Administrator & IT Professional
Aqeel Anwar is a Linux Administrator and IT professional with 12+ years of experience in Linux server installation, configuration, troubleshooting and management. He is the founder and author of SeekLinux, where he shares practical Linux tutorials, commands, troubleshooting guides and system administration resources.
Learn more about the author →
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