Why use Linux?

Apple promoted the revolution of desktop computers. Windows built upon the mass-production of PCs. UNIX revolutionized the graphical user interface. But one particular operating system has gained attention of its own, and all thanks to the work of a student who spearheaded its development.

Linux is the name of a kernel and operating system created by Linus Torvalds. Linux was the kernel that completed Richard Stallman's GNU Project, thereby completing a free-software operating system. Linux is free and Open Source; it costs no money to download and use, and it allows users--namely those unaffiliated with Microsoft, Apple, and other major computer corporations--to contribute their own code to the project.¹

Linux is a stable platform, offering greater protection from viruses and reducing the risk of system crashes. In theory, this makes it an ideal operating system for anyone (although, in practice, there isn't much major software such as Adobe's products that can use Linux). But the fact that Linux is Open Source has allowed programmers and major corporations to use the OS's stability. Google, Amazon.com, DreamWorks, and Industrial Light and Magic have used (and continue to use) Linux, and government agencies are adopting the OS into its servers and computers.²

Ever since I got a Mac, I've learned about Linux, UNIX, and X11 to the point where I want to use the OS. Anything that provides greater stability would be great, but for me to use it, it would have to fill a need or a want. Right now, it's curiosity only, but that'll change once I use it. Part of me wants to learn how to program in C and write code for it, too, but until I know how to do it, I don't think I'd be using Linux as much as I'd like.

But based on what I've heard, I'd love to explore Linux and see what it does. Computers have always fascinated me, and seeing something different from Mac and Windows fascinates me. And if I can learn how to program code in C, Linux will be an adventure that I'd have the will and the skill to explore. For me, it's an opportunity just waiting to be taken.

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Works cited:

1. "The GNU Manifesto"
2. "Who Uses Linux?"