Linux
Linux � The Open Source and Free Software
Linux is an Operating System which belongs to the family of Operating Systems using Linux kernel. This operating system can be easily installed on a variety of hardware�s including tablet PC�s, mobile phones, super computers, video games and lots more. It also holds the distinction of being the world�s leading server OS and it also controls the world�s ten fastest supercomputers.
This Operating System is considered to be an open source and free software as it allows its under lying source code to be freely modified, used, and redistributed easily. Redistribution can happen in both commercial as well as non commercial ways, but the distributor has to hold the GNU General Public License.
It comes packaged in the format known as the Linux Distribution, which is basically for server use and desktops. This distribution includes Fedora, Debian, and openSUSE. It also includes the kernel, libraries and supporting utilities. Some of the most commonly used applications in desktops having this operating system are Mozilla Firefox, OpenOffice.org and GIMP image editor.
The basic difference between the other operating systems and Linux is that its components and kernel are open source and free software. It is not the only OS that provides these facilities, but it truly is one of the most used operating systems throughout the world. Distributions based on this OS were developed with so that it is interoperable with other OS.
Systems running on Linux adhere to SUS, POSIX, ANSI and ISO standards. The free software projects are produced independently even though they�re developed with some cooperation. The distribution of this operating system is also known as a �distro� and is responsible for managing the remote and distinct collection of application software and system software, which are also available for installation and download through any network connection.
All these distributions are basically maintained by loose-knit teams, individuals, commercial entities, and volunteer organization. It is also responsible for default configuration of installed kernel, general security and different packages of software. Distributions generally use the package manager such as Synaptic, dpkg, Portage or YAST to remove, update and install all the software�s of the system from its central location.
Widely used across the world, this operating system provides great utility and is easier to handle. Programming and handling other data is simple and convenient to use. It also helps you in reading and understanding different network topologies and its architecture.


