Linux & Cybersecurity Blogs

What is Linux?
Linux is an open-source kernel, which is the basis of modern computing. Originally developed by Linus Torvald in 1991, this was his  project wherein he created a free, Unix-like operating system kernel. It has since grown into a collaborative, community-driven project that is little short of being inside everything from servers and smartphones to spacecraft and all manner of embedded devices.

The Core of Linux: The Kernel
At its core, Linux is a kernel, the fundamental centre of an operating system, responsible for allocating hardware resources (memory, processes, and devices). The kernel forms a bridge connecting the user with the actual hardware, providing a conducive and effective communication and interaction. Unlike all proprietary operating systems, the Linux kernel can be tweaked and re-delivered by its users under the Desktop Public License (DPL).

Linux Distributions: Customised Kernels and Other Parts of the OS
The kernel, of course, is only the guts of Linux; most people encounter it through a “distribution” or “distro.” A distribution is a full-fledged operating system containing the Linux kernel and various other software, libraries, and toolsets. They are often customised for specific uses, which makes them flexible and can be used in different scenarios.

Some of the most commonly used Linux distributions are:

• Ubuntu: Popular and easy to use, Ubuntu is frequently suggested for new Linux users. It also has plenty of pre-loaded programs to plug and play straight away.
• Debian: As one of the oldest and most stable Linux distros around, Debian’s reputation is well earned, and developers and sysadmins are particularly inclined to turn to it, seeing as it’s so reliable and has a huge software package repository.
• Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL): This commercial distribution is tailored for businesses and enterprises, providing long-term support and training through certification programs.
• Arch Linux: A distribution made for advanced users, Arch offers total customisation of your software and an exceptional opportunity to get down and dirty with Linux.
  
  Why Use Linux?
  There are many reasons for Linux’s surge in popularity, particularly among developers, tech enthusiasts and those running high-powered workstations.
  A few of the main benefits are:
  
• Open Source: Linux is free to use and repurpose. Being open source, it allows anyone to view its source code, making collaboration a reality that results in innovations.
• Security: Linux can be considered one of the more secure operating systems. Its architecture, potent user permissions, and regular security patches leave it less exposed to malware and hackers.
• Customisation: GNU/Linux gives the user full control over the operating system. Whether setting up a desktop or a server, or creating something that just needs to be hands-off and never booted to a GUI, Linux gives you infinite customisation options.
• Stable and Reliable: Linux is the OS of choice for many servers, supercomputers, and mission-critical systems because it is stable and reliable. Linux is good at running for long periods without needing a reboot, so it is great for a server.
• Software compatible: Most commercial software is designed specifically for Windows or Mac OS, but you can find open-source tools or alternatives for almost anything on Linux. On the other hand, software such as Wine can run Windows applications on Linux.
• Community support: Linux has a strong, helpful community of users and developers. An online forum, documentation, and mailing lists offer plenty of help and resources for people who need assistance or wish to contribute to the ecosystem.

Where is Linux Used?
Linux is a highly versatile operating system which is utilised in various jobs such as:

• Servers: Most web servers use Linux to serve the web, store files, and more.
• Embedded Systems: With many possible computer devices ranging from smart TVS to in-car computers, medical devices to home appliance automation, Linux OS is written into all sorts of embedded products because it’s easy to customise and small in size.
• Mobile Devices: The most commonly used mobile OS is Android, which is built on the Linux kernel. This is one of the major reasons Linux is so prevalent on the smartphone market.
• Desktops: Windows and macos have a lock on the desktop space, but Linux has fans among those who are more technically inclined, developers, or simply looking for a more lightweight and customisable alternative.
• Supercomputers: More than 90% of the world’s supercomputers run Linux because it scales and delivers the best performance on high-end computing tasks.
• Space Exploration: Linux is also in space, as NASA employs Linux in numerous projects because of its stability and adaptability.

Getting Started with Linux
Obfuscation of features so that Windows users will join the system OS It’s what his clients were asking for. For the uninitiated in Linux, the shift from other OSes could be quite distressing initially. But many of today’s Linux distributions are extremely user-friendly and don’t require a terminal, meaning it’s not really that different from any other operating system.

One can begin with Linux by:
Go to Live CD/USB: Some distributions, including Ubuntu, have a “Live” version that you can run off your USB stick without changing your computer’s operating system.
Dual Boot A so-called dual boot system can run two operating systems simultaneously.
Virtual Machines: To tinker and learn, you can use something like VirtualBox or VMware to run a Linux distro within your current OS.

Conclusion
Linux is alive and well thanks to its open-source system, security, stability, and ability to be modified. It is a fundamental tool for developers, systems admins, and anyone who took the time to get truly comfortable working from the command line, and its usage shows no sign of diminishing–if anything, its use continues to spread to even more areas of work and play. Whether you want to try a new experience or start an enterprise project, you’ll find that Linux is a powerful and rewarding operating system.