What is Linux
What is Linux ? Linux is a free and open-source operating system that helps your computer work by managing its hardware and software. It’s like the main control center that allows everything on your device to run properly whether it’s opening files, connecting to the internet, or using apps.
What makes Linux special is that anyone can use it, change it, and share it without paying. It’s very secure, stable, and used all around the world not just on computers, but also in phones, TVs, servers, and even space systems.
There are different versions of Linux called distros (like Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora), which are made for different types of users—from beginners to experts. You can do almost everything on Linux that you can do on Windows or macOS, including browsing, writing, coding, editing photos, and more.
Why Use Linux ?
1. Free to Use
Linux doesn’t cost a thing. You can download it, install it, and use it without paying any money—unlike Windows or macOS.
2. Open Source
Linux lets anyone see how it works. You can even change the code if you want. This gives you full control and makes it easy to customize.
3. Very Secure
Linux is known for being safe and protected from most viruses and malware. That’s why it’s used on many web servers and by big tech companies.
4. Stable and Reliable
Linux rarely crashes or freezes. It can run for months or even years without needing a restart. That’s why banks, businesses, and even NASA trust Linux.
5. Runs on old Computers
Linux can run smoothly even on older or slower devices. It gives new life to computers that can’t handle Windows anymore.
6. Highly Customizable
You can change the way Linux looks and works however you like. Choose from many desktop styles, themes, and tools that fit your needs.
7. Used Everywhere
Linux powers phones (Android), supercomputers, smart TVs, routers, and even the International Space Station. Learning it can open up many job opportunities.
8. Great For Learning and Coding
If you want to learn programming, ethical hacking, or how computers work, Linux is the best platform. It teaches you more about your system than Windows does.
What is Distribution
A Linux distribution (or Linux distro) is a complete version of the Linux operating system that includes the Linux kernel, system tools, software, and a user interface — all bundled together to make it ready to use.
Linux by itself is just the kernel, which is the core part of the operating system. But the kernel alone isn’t useful for everyday tasks. That’s why developers build distributions, which combine the kernel with everything else you need to use a computer: apps, drivers, settings, a graphical desktop, etc.
What Does a Linux Distribution Include !!
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Linux Kernel | The core engine of the system. Controls hardware, memory, and processes. |
| Package Manager | A tool that helps install, update, or remove software (e.g. APT, DNF). |
| Desktop Environment | The graphical interface — what you see on the screen (like GNOME, KDE). |
| System Tools | Basic tools for managing files, settings, and hardware. |
| Pre-installed Software | Web browsers, office tools, media players, text editors, etc. |
Basic Linux Commands
| Command | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
pwd |
Shows the current directory you are in | pwd → /home/user |
ls |
Lists files and folders in the current directory | ls |
cd |
Changes (navigates) to another directory | cd Documents/ |
mkdir |
Creates a new folder (directory) | mkdir new_folder |
rmdir |
Deletes an empty directory | rmdir old_folder |
touch |
Creates a new empty file | touch file.txt |
rm |
Deletes files or folders | rm file.txt / rm -r folder_name |
cp |
Copies files or folders | cp file1.txt file2.txt |
mv |
Moves or renames files or folders | mv old.txt new.txt |
clear |
Clears the terminal screen | clear |
cat |
Shows the content of a file | cat file.txt |
nano |
Opens a simple text editor inside the terminal | nano file.txt |
echo |
Prints text to the screen | echo Hello World |
exit |
Closes the terminal or logs out of the session | exit |
Architecture of Linux
1. Kernel – The Core of Linux
The kernel is the most important part of Linux. It controls the entire system by managing the computer’s hardware like the CPU, memory, and storage. When you open an app, the kernel makes sure it gets the resources it needs. It works silently in the background, making sure everything runs smoothly.
2. System Libraries – The Helpers
System libraries are special collections of code that help programs do basic tasks, like opening a file or displaying text. Instead of writing their own code from scratch, applications use these libraries to save time and work faster. These libraries act like building blocks that support the programs.
3. System Tools – The Workers
System tools are the basic command-line programs that help you manage files, folders, and processes. Commands like ls (list files) or cp (copy files) are part of these tools. They do small but important jobs and help you control the system through the terminal.
4. Shall / GUI – The User Interface
The shell or GUI is how you interact with Linux. The shell is text-based, where you type commands to control the system. The GUI (Graphical User Interface) gives you a more visual way to use Linux with windows, buttons, and menus. Both allow users to give instructions to the system easily.
5. Hardware – The Physical Machine
This is the actual computer — including the keyboard, screen, hard drive, and other parts. The Linux kernel communicates with this hardware to make sure everything works. Without hardware, the software would have nothing to run on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Linux Free ?
Yes, Most Linux distributions are free to download, install, and use. Some enterprise versions may charge for support or additional features.
What is the Linux kernel ?
The kernel is the core part of the Linux OS that manages system resources, hardware, and communication between software and hardware.
Can I run Windows Software on Linux ?
Yes, using tools like Wine or virtualization software like VirtualBox, VMware, or Proton (for games via Steam).
What is a Package Manager ?
A package manager installs, updates, and removes software on Linux. It handles dependencies and downloads packages from repositories.
Examples:
apt(Debian/Ubuntu)dnf(Fedora)pacman(Arch)zypper(openSUSE)
