Why do we keep running into this UNIX name? Why do you constantly associate Linux with UNIX, and what exactly is UNIX? UNIX is the “ancestor” of all operating systems that are UNIX-like. There are no absolute UNIX systems in use today; instead, any operating systems, including Linux, that bear some resemblance to UNIX are referred to as UNIX-like.
The year 1969 marked the beginning of UNIX. Bell Laboratories was the creator (USA). The main components of many operating systems are still developed using the programming language C (Si), which was created by two project employees who were also members of the group of programmers.
Richard Stallman established the GNU project in 1983 with the intention of developing a universal operating system. Richard also developed his own editor, which substantially facilitated programmers’ job when writing programs.
The operating system’s core was built in 1991 by programmer Linus Torvalds, and after further development, it was given the name Linux in his honour. Since Linux was an open-source product, it spread and advanced quite quickly. Naturally, the early Linux versions were challenging to comprehend, install, and configure, but things have significantly improved since then.
Characteristics of Linux
Compared to the widely used Windows and macOS operating systems, Linux is more widespread. It fuels the majority of the Internet and the top supercomputers in the world, in addition to being utilized in phones, automobiles, and televisions.
Linux is an open source operating system, in contrast to Windows. This implies that everyone can view the program code and alter it as necessary. Linux is also free to install, thus it can be used without a licence. Like any other operating system, Linux has some benefits and drawbacks.
Benefits of Linux
- Free software. This is useful for programmers who need to develop code or modify how their system works. Linux can be an excellent alternative for those who are on a budget yet require a system that can adapt to individual demands because it is also free to install and use, unlike Windows or macOS.
- Security. Linux is incredibly safe. Given that the operating system is open source, many developers worldwide keep a look-out for viruses and other possible risks. In this manner, it will be possible to update or modify the code extremely quickly. Compared to Windows users, there are far less Linux users. Since it is not lucrative to develop viruses for this system, there is a zero percent chance that the system will become infected.
- Speed. The OS is slowed down by antivirus apps, since they consume a lot of RAM. Linux’s straightforward user interface makes it faster than Windows as well.
- Redesign. One of Linux’s biggest benefits is how simple it is to adapt to your needs. It is also quite well-liked among programmers for this reason. This OS’s code is visible, making it considerably simpler to alter. Moreover, without going beyond the licence’s rules.
- Low demands on the computer’s hardware, Linux may be installed and operated on machines with fairly basic hardware. Linux is a fantastic option for you if you’re using an outdated machine that you can’t upgrade.
Disadvantages of LINUX
- Achieving system mastery. It can take some time to learn how to use Linux, especially if you are used to other operating systems. You must first invest the time in understanding Linux’s user interface because it differs greatly from other operating systems.
- Putting in software, Linux does not support any software that runs on Windows or macOS. You should absolutely confirm that the relevant software is compatible with Linux before moving to this operating system.
- A lack of games. Since Windows and macOS are the two operating systems that the majority of computer users use, these operating systems are the focus of game development. One of the reasons Linux is not favoured by youthful users is because many well-known games are not supported by it.
- Drivers. Users have listed a lack of Linux drivers as one of the greatest issues with this operating system. There are workarounds for this, just like with software, but utilizing certain hardware (especially certain hardware) can cause issues.