What is Linux?
Linux by definition is a Unix-like operating system. The Linux kernel (i.e. the central component of the operating system) was created by a man named Linus Torvalds.
What does “Unix-like” mean?
“Unix-like” means that Linux “acts” like Unix in the way that it performs functions. You need not have to understand what this means other than it’s much different from the way Windows does things.
Do I have to pay for Linux?
It depends what distribution you want. But for all intents and purposes, the vast majority of Linux “distros” are free to download, install and use.
What’s a “distro”?
“Distro” means “a specific packaging of an operating system.” For Linux, it literally means “A Linux Distribution.” Different distros have different features in them. Some of the distros you may be familiar with are Debian, Red Hat, SuSE, Ubuntu, Sabayon and so on. There are many different Linux distros that exist. Some are more supported than others. Ubuntu, for example, is a widely supported Linux and has gained enough popularity to be bundled with some new computers built by Dell.
Does Linux run on a PC or a Mac?
Both. Many Linux distros have the ability to run on almost any computer architecture that exists, and this includes “x86” (PC) and “PowerPC” (Mac.)
How do I get Linux?
The traditional way to get a Linux distro is to download a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM image from the internet and then write this image to a blank CD or DVD using software such as Nero Burning ROM. However, many Linux distros such as Ubuntu will ship you a copy of the operating system for free via postal mail.
Will Linux run on my computer?
If your computer is able to run Microsoft Windows XP, it can run any distro of Linux you choose.
What’s different about Linux compared to Windows?
The immediate differences are:
- No drive letters (all locations on a Linux file system are in folders rather than drive letters.)
- All of the software you will use will be via the internet instead of buying it in a store. At the present time every single application almost anyone would ever need is free to download and use. “Free” means “you don’t pay anything.”
- The graphical environment (icons, folders, commands) is different. In addition, settings for items will also be in different areas.
- Adding and removing programs is not as straightforward as Microsoft Windows.
Is there documentation for Linux?
Yes and no. Yes, there is documentation for Linux. No, it is not easy to follow. If you find Windows difficult in any way, any Linux will be more difficult for you to use.
Because of the decentralized nature of Linux, documentation from distro to distro is different. However there are efforts being made on the internet to create a central repository for all Linux documentation, such as The Linux Documentation Project.
Will Linux “understand” the devices and peripherals I have now?
It depends on the devices you have. Generally speaking, Linux will understand almost all keyboards, mice, digital cameras, sound cards, optical drives (CD/DVD), hard drives, traditional network cards (non-wireless) and USB flash drives. You may encounter potential issues with:
- “All in one” printers (print/scanners)
- Video cards under six months old
- Wireless network cards
What are some Linux distros that are more “popular” (the ones that more people use)?
There are many distros of Linux, however one that has major support (including being bundled in some new computers by Dell) is Ubuntu Linux. You can download Ubuntu or request a CD to be shipped to you for free via the same web site.
People use Ubuntu because it is designed to be as easy to get up and running (and use) as possible. It is also one of the most widely used Linux distros in the world.
Some other “flavors” of Linux you may be interested in are PCLinuxOS, Fedora, Mint and others. If you want to find a “master list” of the more popular distributions, head to the web site DistroWatch.
It is important to use a distro that has wide support so you can receive timely updates, patches, bug fixes and so on.
Is it possible to try out Linux without installing it?
Absolutely. Many Linux distros (such as Ubuntu) can be run directly from CD-ROM using a “LiveCD” mode. All this means is that you boot the computer with the disc in the drive and it will boot into Linux without physically installing anything. Once Linux has started in LiveCD mode, it is fully functional and you can try out anything you like within the operating system to see if it works for you.
There are also ways to install Linux without having it “take over” your hard drive. Two ways are:
- Using a virtual environment, such as VMWare Server
- Installing Linux as a Windows application using Wubi.
Enjoy playing around with Linux. Windows isn’t the only game in town!
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