1.1 What Is Linux?
Linux is an open-source operating system widely used in servers, development environments, embedded systems, and cloud infrastructure.
In everyday usage, “Linux” usually refers to a complete operating system built around the Linux kernel, combined with system tools, libraries, and user applications.
Linux is known for its:
- Stability and reliability
- Strong security model
- High performance and scalability
- Flexibility and customizability
Because of these characteristics, Linux has become the foundation of:
- Most web servers
- Cloud platforms
- DevOps and container technologies
- Many embedded and IoT systems
Why Learn Linux?
Learning Linux helps you:
- Understand how modern systems work behind the scenes
- Work efficiently with servers and cloud platforms
- Develop software in environments closer to production
- Gain skills that are widely required in engineering roles
What Linux Is — and Is Not
Linux is:
- An operating system used worldwide
- A core part of modern infrastructure
- A platform that emphasizes command-line interaction
Linux is not:
- A single product made by one company
- Only a desktop operating system
- Limited to programmers only
📌 Note:
In the next section, we will clarify an important concept:
the difference between an operating system and a kernel.