Linux is a complete operating system that is similar but not identical to UNIX. It runs on a wide variety of hardware, ranging from standard PCs running Intel and AMD processors to more exotic hardware such as Digital Alpha computers, PowerPCs, and Silicon Graphics workstations. Probably the most unique characteristic of Linux is that it is freely distributable. Freely distributable means that the source code for the kernel and most software cannot be withheld. It does not mean that companies cannot charge for it.

Originally the term Linux referred strictly to the kernel (the core of the operating system), but the phrase itself refers nowadays to a collection of configured software that runs on top of the Linux kernel. These 'collections of software' are known as distributions. Although these distributions often have their own unique (together with some proprietary software) flavour they are essentially the same. In the early days there were only two popular distributions, Slackware and SLS. However, nowadays there is a wide choice such as as Fedora, Ubuntu, SuSE, Mandriva, and Debian. The developers of these distributions do not just compile and configure the software. They also add their own software to their distribution, which helps to differentiates them from each other.

The easiest way to obtain a Linux distribution is to purchase or download a CD/DVD containing the software. There are many retailers that provide distributions at a few dollars. However, at this price, they can't offer is technical support. If you think you will need some help in installing Linux I would recommend you purchase a commercial distribution; for example many distributions offer a certain period of free technical support in installing their distribution.

If I had to recommend one distribution to a newcomer it would be Ubuntu. Why? This is an up-to-date distribution which is simple, and easy to use, a huge range of software, and excellent support among the Linux community.

There are many commercial applications that have been ported over to Linux. Software such as VMware and Wine let you run many Windows programs under Linux.

Last Updated Saturday, June 21 2008 @ 03:58 PM EDT