Linux is one of the most popular operating systems on the market. Created more than 25 years ago, Linux has often been considered inappropriate for all users. However, contrary to expectations, the system is widely used. Although it has become increasingly known, some aspects of the operating system remain less well known even nowadays.
• The best supercomputers in the world use a Linux distribution as an operating system. In the top 500 supercomputers, 498 computers use this operating system, and the most optimistic predictions for the year 2019 say that Linux will eliminate all top competitors;
• Linux is free. Downloading, installing and testing a version of the operating system is legal and free, due to the fact that Linux is open source software. However, derivative versions created specifically for companies are not necessarily open-source, because these versions have been personalized according to needs;
• Linux is also used on mobile devices. The Android operating system, adopted by most mobile devices, is based on a modified version of the Linux kernel.
• There is no need to delete your current operating system to install Linux. We can run at the same time, besides the classic Windows used by about 90% of personal computers, a Linux distribution: Ubuntu, Linux Mint, etc., because they can be installed in dual-boot system, which allows for more operating systems running on the same computer without too much effort (but they can not run at the same time);
• Linux offers the possibility to use multiple graphics environments. GNOME 3, Cinnamon, MATE, KDE are just some graphical media that can be installed on Linux. This may radically change the way the system is running and how the computer behaves. For example, Cinnamon offers users a very similar experience to the traditional system because the desktop has the same display mode as Windows. Each graphical pattern provides another experience for users through their peculiarities.
• Linux comes packaged with a complex security system. Unlike other operating systems, Linux does not need to install an antivirus to prevent potential attacks. The main advantage of the system lies in the accessibility of the source code, which allows any user to modify and eliminate potential errors, which helps to remove the vulnerabilities very quickly;
• There are communities developed around many Linux distributions. If users are having problems, they can consult the installed distribution documentation or they can contact the online Linux user community. Every Linux distribution has an online community (created by the founders and dedicated to users), which solves problems in a shorter time, especially since many answers to questions are not delayed from other users;
Contrary to the general view that Linux fits only to experienced users who have advanced technical knowledge, Linux has advantages and facilities for any user, regardless of the purpose of the installation. Thus, a deeper understanding of these facilities can change the general view.