Hey there! Are you ready to embark on a journey to the land of penguins? We’re going to learn about Linux, the open-source operating system that has been changing the game since the early ’90s. We’ll discuss the basics of what this powerful system is, and find out how it’s used by tech wizards all over the world. So buckle up, grab your favorite snack (mine is a burger, of course), and let’s dive in!
Overview
Linux is an operating system, which is a type of software that manages the hardware and software resources of a computer. It was created by a computer programmer named Linus Torvalds in 1991, and it is based on the Unix operating system.
Linux is different from other operating systems like Windows and macOS because it is free and open-source. This means that anyone can download and use Linux for free, and they can also modify and distribute the code that makes up the operating system.
Linux is used by many people and organizations around the world because it is powerful, reliable, and customizable (Like a Ford-150). OK OK OK!!!! I’m KIDDING! Don’t close this window Chevy/Ram/GMC owners! We are here to learn about Linux! SORRY! Anyhow…..
It is often used to run servers, which are computers that provide services like websites and email to other computers on a network. It can also be used on personal computers, laptops, and even smartphones and other devices.
If you are in I.T. in any form, you should definitely be aware of how to use and navigate a Linux operating system.
Who uses Linux?
Many careers in Information Technology (IT) involve the use of Linux. Some examples of careers in IT that utilize Linux include:
- System Administrators: These professionals are responsible for managing and maintaining computer systems, networks, and servers. They often use Linux to configure, monitor, and troubleshoot these systems.
- DevOps Engineers: DevOps engineers work at the intersection of software development and IT operations, and they use Linux to automate the deployment and management of software applications.
- Network Engineers: Network engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks, and they often use Linux-based tools to monitor and optimize network performance.
- Cybersecurity Specialists: Cybersecurity specialists use Linux-based tools to monitor and secure computer systems and networks from potential security threats. They are also more likely to use a flavor like Kali Linux, which can get you into some serious trouble if you don’t use it ethically and for the right reasons!!
- Data Scientists: Data scientists use Linux-based tools to analyze and manipulate large amounts of data, and to develop and deploy machine learning algorithms.
These are just a few examples of the many careers in IT that utilize Linux. The versatility and flexibility of Linux make it a valuable tool for many different tasks in the IT industry and beyond like robotics etc.
What is a linux distribution?
Linux distributions, also known as “distros,” are variations of the Linux operating system that are customized by different groups of people for specific purposes or preferences. Each Linux distribution includes the Linux kernel (the core of the operating system), along with different software packages, desktop environments, and system tools that are chosen by the distribution maintainers.
There are many different Linux distributions available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some distributions are designed for general-purpose use, while others are optimized for specific tasks like multimedia production or scientific computing. Some popular Linux distributions include Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and CentOS (which will be End of Life).
Users can choose the Linux distribution that best fits their needs and preferences, and then download and install it for free. Because Linux distributions are open-source, users can also modify and customize the distribution to suit their specific needs or to contribute to the development of the distribution itself.
Now what?!?!
Well now that you have a basic understanding of what Linux is, it’s time to learn to use it! Check out some related articles here and head over to the MGTechBytes YouTube channel to get up to speed on how to spin up a virtual machine with Linux and learn some useful tips and tricks! I can’t express enough that you need to understand how to use Linux to level up in your IT career or to do anything cool in life! Haha, no but really… having Linux skills will do wonders for you. I’m excited you have taken the first step to learn about it. Now keep climbing to the next level!
Spin up that Linux virtual machine here: Installing and Configuring a Linux Virtual machine in VirtualBox