Most people are familiar with Windows and Mac operating systems but haven’t tried out Linux. Linux OS has been around for several decades, yet it remains a mystery to many people. It is an important player in the world of computing, powering a wide range of devices including servers, PCs, and smartphones. In this article, we will look at Linux, how it differs from Windows and Mac OS, and its advantages and disadvantages.
Linux OS was first released in 1991 by Linus Torvalds as an alternative to proprietary operating systems such as Windows. Unlike Windows and Mac OS, Linux is open-source, meaning that its source code is freely available for anyone to view, modify, and distribute. For this reason, developers have teamed up to tweak the source code and create their own versions, often referred to as ‘distros/distributions’ or ‘flavours’ which offer varying features. Some of the most popular Linux distros include Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora, and Debian.
How Linux differs from Windows and Mac OS
Linux OS differs from other mainstream operating systems such as Windows and Mac OS in various ways. One of the key differences is that Linux is open-source software while Windows and Mac OS are proprietary software.
Another significant difference between these software is their user interface. Windows and Mac OS have a more graphical and user-friendly interface, whereas Linux uses a command-line interface that requires users to enter text commands to operate the system. However, Linux offers graphical user interfaces, such as GNOME and KDE, for those who prefer a more visual experience.
Advantages of using Linux OS
1. Open source and free
One of the biggest advantages of using Linux OS is that it is free and open-source software. Anyone can download and install Linux on their computer as they want without having to pay for licenses. This is in contrast with Windows and Mac, which come with a price tag.
2. Stable and secure
Linux is known for its stability and security. The OS is less prone to viruses and malware attacks compared to Windows and Mac OS. This is because it is open-source software, and is continuously updated and improved by a vast community of developers worldwide.
3. Highly customizable and configurable
Another advantage of using Linux OS is that it is highly customizable, allowing users to modify the OS to meet their specific needs. Also, it has a large community of developers who contribute to its development, which results in new features and improvements regularly. Additionally, there are over 100 Linux distros users can choose from, each with its unique set of features.
4. Lightweight and fast
Linux is a lightweight operating system that does not demand high hardware specifications. This is not always the case with Windows and Mac OS. You can install Linux OS on an old computer that is no longer supported by the other operating systems and continue using it.
Disadvantages of using Linux OS
1. Steep learning curve
One of the biggest drawbacks of Linux is the learning curve. Linux is not as user-friendly as Windows or Mac, so users need to have some knowledge of command line interfaces. This may be a challenge to users who are used to the other platforms to adjust to Linux. However, many Linux distributions have made significant strides in improving user-friendliness.
2. Limited availability of application software
While Linux has many application software options, it still lags behind Windows and Mac. Some popular software may not be available for Linux, which can be frustrating for users who rely on specific applications. Also, some hardware manufacturers do not provide drivers for Linux OS. This can be an issue for users who need to use specific hardware or peripherals.
3. Lack of standardization
With many Linux distros available, there is a lack of standardization across them. This makes it difficult for developers to create software that works seamlessly across different distributions. Some software may work on one distribution but not on another.
Conclusion
One of the best things about Linux OS is that it is free to use, modify, and distribute. Despite the few disadvantages, Linux is a powerful and versatile operating system worth exploring, especially for tech-savvy people who value open-source software and customization options.
