History of Linux: -
Linus Torvalds started working on Linux as a replacement to the Minix OS while at the University of Helsinki in Finland. Torvalds recognized the work done on the GNU Project in 1983, which intended to create a complete, Unix-compatible OS comprised entirely of free software, and noted the GNU as a model for distribution. However, the work on GNU had not been finished by the time Torvalds sought a Minix replacement, prompting him to develop an alternate OS kernel dubbed Linux -- a contraction of Linus' Unix -- and adopt the GNU GPL.
Torvalds released the Linux kernel in September 1991. A community of developers worked to integrate GNU components with Torvalds' kernel to create a complete, free OS known collectively as Linux. Torvalds continues to develop the Linux kernel and a vast developer community continues to create and integrate a wide range of components.
While Linux still lags Windows and macOS on the desktop, it continues to challenge the proprietary OS vendors on servers and embedded systems.
Linux is a family of open-source Unix-like operating systems, built around the Linux kernel. It's known for its flexibility, security, and use in a wide range of devices, from smartphones to supercomputers. It's commonly distributed as a Linux distribution, which includes the kernel and other essential software.
Open source software. The Linux kernel is released under the GNU GPL open-source software license. Most distros include hundreds of applications, with many options in almost every category. Many distributions also include proprietary software, such as device drivers provided by manufacturers, to support their hardware.
Licensing costs. Unlike Microsoft Windows or Apple macOS, Linux has no explicit licensing fees. While system support is available for a fee from many Linux vendors, the OS itself is free to copy and use. Some IT organizations have increased their savings by switching their server software from a commercial OS to Linux.
Reliability. Linux is considered a reliable OS and is well-supported with security patches. Linux is also considered to be stable, meaning it can run in most circumstances. Linux also copes with errors when running software and unexpected input.
Backward compatibility. Linux and other open source software tend to be updated frequently for security and functional patches, while retaining core functionality. Configurations and shell scripts are likely to work unchanged even when software updates are applied. Unlike commercial software vendors that roll out new versions of their OSes along with new ways to work, Linux and open source applications generally don't change their modes of operation with new releases.
Many choices. Between the hundreds of available distributions, thousands of applications and almost infinite options for configuring, compiling and running Linux on almost any hardware platform, it is possible to optimize Linux for almost any application.
Key functions of Linux:-
Hardware Management
Server Operations
Software Development
Embedded Systems and IoT
Cloud Computing
Desktop Computing
Networking
Multi-user and Multitasking
Security and Customization
Types of Linux
Debian
Fedora
Ubuntu
Red Hat Enterprise Linux
openSUSE
Linux Mint
Arch Linux
CentOS
Elementary OS
How to download Linux: -
First you have to check your system security and configuration, turn Windows features on or off screen will open up, scroll to where you have Windows Subsystem for Linux and check the dialog box beside it, then choose the version of Linux you want to download; Ubutu releases a new version every six months; whereas, Long Term Support versions (LTS) are released every two years, go to Microsoft store choose the version and click get it will start downloading after that you click install and open. Double-click on the setup file to install it and click Next, When prompted for user access permission, click on Yes to continue and then click on Finish to complete the installation.
After that you install the Windows Terminal:-
search for it on the Microsoft Store on your PC. Click on get to download it and then click on open to open it after the installation.
You will be able to switch tabs rapidly and move between various Linux distributions or other command lines (PowerShell, Command Prompt, Azure CLI, etc), I was able to install Linux, Wsl in VS Code.
Note:- I dive into Bash scripting and its importance in a production. Bash shell scripting refers to the practice of writing sequences of commands for the Bourne-Again Shell (Bash), a widely used command-line interpreter in Unix-like operating systems like Linux and macOS. These sequences of commands are stored in a plain text file, known as a Bash script, and are executed by the Bash interpreter. Most importantly I learnt how to install Screenespresso, which is use to capture desktop (screenshots and HD videos) for training documents, collaborative design work, IT bug reports.
This is what I learned this week (June 23-27, 2025) next week I will focus on Linux system files and commands. – Alex
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