Whether you’re looking at different options for using a new operating system, or you’ve just heard of Linux and you want to know more about what it does, you’ve come to the right place. In this post we’ll be discussing Linux for beginners, so you can understand if this software is right for you.
What Is Linux?
Created in 1991 by university student Linus Torvalds, Linux is an open-source operating system that was designed to rival a clone of the Unix system, Minix, that was being used in academic settings. Its open-source nature makes it free to everyone, and it was intended to be an exact clone of Unix that was accessible for all. Over the years, Linux has maintained its popularity as an operating system that is ‘Unix-compatible’, with interfacing and programming tools similar to those of its predecessor.
In short, an operating system is a software that manages your computer hardware, software resources and the relationships between them. When you open a software application, like Microsoft Word, you use your keyboard to type. Your computer’s operating system is what tells Word that when you press letter keys, those letters need to be displayed on the page.
What Are the Benefits of Using Linux?
On top of it being open source, there is a whole host of benefits to choosing Linux for your operating system. One of the biggest advantages to using it over the alternatives available is its reliability – the operating system gives high stability and does not need to be regularly rebooted. Unlike some of its competitors, which require reboots for software installations or updates, Linux removes disturbance and lets you focus on the stuff that matters without losing performance.
It’s also a great option for an operating system due to the flexibility it provides to its user – you’ll only ever need to install what you need with Linux, unlike on other systems which demand the installation of full suites of components to reap the benefits of just one. Finally, the customisation available through Linux really sets this system apart from the rest – you can edit, add or delete features as required according to your individual needs thanks to its open-source nature, and this makes the entire user experience unique to everyone. This also comes in handy for users with disabilities, who can ensure that their operating system is tailored specifically to their needs.
How to Use Linux
To use Linux, you should download the OS onto your computer and familiarise yourself with the command-line interface. It’s important to note that you’ll need a capable and reliable Laptop for Linux to run the software, so take a look at some of the options from Lenovo that fit the bill for this and suit a range of budgets and requirements. Next, play around with the Linux file system so that you can start to understand more about the potential of your new installation. There are also some fantastic online guides about using Linux, so you can do some more research if you’re in need of inspiration.
Linux is a great software, and its open-source commitment makes it suitable for a huge variety of users worldwide. If you’re looking for a new system to run software applications, you can’t go wrong by choosing this user-friendly and far-reaching operating system. Making sure you have the right laptop before testing it is crucial, but once you’ve upgraded your tech, the possibilities with Linux are truly endless.