Chapter 1. What is Linux?

Table of Contents

1. History
1.1. UNIX
1.2. Linus and Linux
1.3. Current application of Linux systems
2. The user interface
2.1. Is Linux difficult?
2.2. Linux for non-experienced users
3. Does Linux have a future?
3.1. Open Source
3.2. Ten years of experience at your service
4. Properties of Linux
4.1. Linux Pros
4.2. Linux Cons
5. Linux Flavors
5.1. Linux and GNU
5.2. GNU/Linux
5.3. Which distribution should I install?
6. Summary
7. Exercises

Abstract

We will start with an overview of how Linux became the operating system it is today. We will discuss past and future development and take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of this system. We will talk about distributions, about Open Source in general and try to explain a little something about GNU.

This chapter answers questions like:

  • What is Linux?

  • Where and how did Linux start?

  • Isn't Linux that system where everything is done in text mode?

  • Does Linux have a future or is it just hype?

  • What are the advantages of using Linux?

  • What are the disadvantages?

  • What kinds of Linux are there and how do I choose the one that fits me?

  • What are the Open Source and GNU movements?