Definition
Linux is a free and open-source operating system kernel that serves as the foundation for numerous operating system distributions. Created by Linus Torvalds in 1991, Linux has become one of the most widely used operating systems in the world, powering everything from smartphones and embedded devices to servers and supercomputers.
Key Features
- Open Source: Source code is freely available and modifiable
- Multi-user: Multiple users can access the system simultaneously
- Multitasking: Can run multiple processes concurrently
- Security: Built-in security features and permission systems
- Stability: Known for reliability and uptime
- Portability: Runs on various hardware architectures
Popular Distributions
# Desktop Distributions Ubuntu - User-friendly, great for beginners Fedora - Cutting-edge features, Red Hat sponsored Linux Mint - Based on Ubuntu, traditional desktop Debian - Stable, community-driven # Server Distributions CentOS/RHEL - Enterprise-focused Ubuntu Server - Cloud and server deployments SUSE Linux Enterprise - Enterprise solutions
Career Impact
$95K
Average Linux Admin Salary
85%
Of Cloud Infrastructure Uses Linux
500K+
Linux Jobs Available Globally
Learning Path
- Install a beginner-friendly distribution (Ubuntu/Linux Mint)
- Learn basic command line operations
- Understand file system structure and permissions
- Practice system administration tasks
- Learn shell scripting (Bash)
- Explore server configuration and management
- Study containerization (Docker) and orchestration