What is Linux?

February 1, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Tux, the Linux penguin

Image via Wikipedia

Linux is a computer software operating system. It helps a computer apply functions through applications and operations.

Typical operating systems run using an application, such as a computer processor. These systems perform a certain task and this effort is sent to the system’s application through the system. The same is true for Linux.

It was started in 1991 and in 2008 it represented an ecosystem of $25 billion. Linux continues to be enhanced within the computer industry. It can be found working and powering various elements including:

  • Mobile phones
  • Consumer devices
  • Supercomputers
  • New York Stock Exchange
  • PDAs
  • Web services, such as Linked In and YouTube

Linux does differ compared to other operating systems, such as OS X and Windows, though.

It was created to be an open operating system that is not handled by just one group. It is an effort that has continued support and development as a group effort. Several companies share the expense of what it costs to keep Linux up-to-date. This collaborative effort allows for efficient results because it is a group effort. There are around 100 companies that work with Linux, with that number continuing to grow. This effort has helped Linux to be a popular system found in use throughout the world.

Even though Linux is a very popular operating system it continues toward more elements of involvement. Linux can be found in BIOS laptop systems, for example as well as in computer notebooks. It is known to speed up computer start up time. Linux provides Internet connection tools for computers including e-mail and a web browser. Using Linux means computer users are working on the Internet and they didn’t have to start it up on their own – it just starts up when the computer does.

Linux is known to be evolving just as all computers and other technologies evolve. Changes are being made all the time and improvements are being introduced.

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Switching To Linux – Stop Planning And Make The Move Today

January 29, 2011 By Leave a Comment

People come up with the funniest reasons not to switch from the Windows operating system. Just like the bird which has been caged for such a long time that it begins to fear freedom itself, people are scared of moving away from the Windows operating system even if they know it for a fact that there are better alternatives available.

Just keep the following points in mind when you are contemplating a switch from a Windows operating system

  • There is no need to skip Windows completely. You can keep it as your primary operating system in your computer and use an alternative operating system or Linux distribution through the live CD process.
  • You can operate multiple operating systems of the Linux based distributions from the same computer. Just remove one live CD and place another live CD and you will have a brand new operating system in your computer.
  • The operating system that you choose can be modified to include your favorite software applications. If you often make use of Window’s only software applications, going in for Wine which will help you run such programs on your Linux distribution will be a smart move. You can incorporate this software program as a part of your live CD.
  • Setting up dual booting option to ensure you can switch from your favorite Linux distribution to your favorite Windows operating system is not a difficult process.
  • The switch from one operating system to another need not be done in a hurry. Since Linux is open source and numerous good distributions are available for free, you can take your own time to make the switch.

Since you cannot use your Windows operating system on a CD, it is advisable to keep it installed on a secondary drive which does not consume a lot of space. You can remove unnecessary programs and retain only those software applications that cannot be run on Linux.

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Linux Is Chaotic To Some; Functional And Flexible To Others

January 27, 2011 By Leave a Comment

It is incorrect to say that Linux will always remain a chaotic and complicated alternative to the Windows operating system. Complication is a matter of personal perception. The fact that one has to install so many software applications to use a single computer may seem like a complicated task for some. However, most of us do not face any problem in this regard.

We simply download the necessary software application after buying it and install it without any difficulty. The makers of different Linux distributions are well aware of the negative publicity surrounding this important feature. There are many experts who swear by the variety and choice that Linux offers. According to them, this is the only way the computer programming world can avoid the stagnation.

If each and every computer were to use Windows operating system and if a single company were to decide its features, a large number of persons would invariably end up being dissatisfied. The only way to overcome this problem is to make use of different distributions designed for specific tasks. There are some software applications which can be used for all distributions without any difficulty.

Free and open source programs can be combined with the operating system and offered as a single package known as live CD. Other programs need to be purchased from the developer and need to be downloaded before use. The absence of a single point where users of Linux could identify all programs suitable for their distribution was sorely felt. This is a reason why the makers of distribution are coming up with alternatives and are taking steps to tackle this issue. What is beginning as a single point of reference for different users may soon become an emporium where individuals can not just find the right software application for their distribution but also identify other options which can be downloaded and used using emulators and simulators.

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Linux Vs Windows – Former May Seem Confusing But Is A Better Option

January 25, 2011 By Leave a Comment

A democracy is often considered chaotic, inefficient and complicated. There are different pressure groups that lobby for influence and the government that is formed is a mixture of all possible parties interested in the process of governance. The one size fits all approach of a dictatorship seems more efficient and sensible but will, sooner or later, create more complications and problems than a democracy. The same is the case with Linux as well.

The fact that there are numerous versions and variations of Linux, called distributions, is often cited as a disadvantage. There is no doubt that an average individual who knows virtually next to nothing about a computer programming will find it very confusing to assess different distributions. For such a person, a single product that is compatible with bulk of the hardware and software applications in the market is good enough.

Well, Linux distributions can be marketed and pitched to even such average users who are not interested in technicalities. However, the one size fits all approach means that developers and other persons with computer and programming knowledge often end up being unsatisfied.

All it takes is a quick search on the internet to understand that Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux distributions around. It is a perfect replacement for an average user of a Windows operating system computer. For those who want specific modifications, there are numerous variations of Ubuntu combined with other distributions like Red Hat and Fedora.

The overall result may often seem chaotic and unwieldy. There are many distributions that deserve a lot more attention but do not enjoy the same simply because there is no advertisement around. On the other hand, many other distributions get publicity even if they are not very useful to the masses. Well, the process of balancing different requirements will take time. In case of Windows, the system stagnates and creates more complications for users in the long run.

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Learning Linux Programming Language – Why Is It Such A Big Deal?

January 20, 2011 By Leave a Comment

It is not compulsory to know a programming language to make smart use of a Linux distribution. The graphical user interface feature is an essential part of almost all popular Linux distributions. Even if it is not, one can easily search for, identify and download any program that will simplify this process for your Linux distribution.

Before you conclude that learning a computer programming language is not possible for you, why don’t you consider the alternative? Learning a language that will help you communicate with the computer better is no different than learning a language that will help you communicate with a foreigner better. For sufficient consideration and incentives, you will certainly be prepared to learn a new language.

If you are a part of a marketing team, chances are high that you have been encouraged to explore other languages. This will help improve your job credentials and will make you a bigger asset for your company. Well, knowing how to program for computers will help you use your Linux distribution better.

Whether you actually choose to clatter on the keyboard is a different issue. There is no harm in learning the language. Once you treat computer programming language as just any other language, you will realize that the difficulties you face in the task were no different than the difficulties you face when learning any other language.

Just as you do not expect to learn and master a foreign language in a single day, you should not expect to become a master at programming in a single day. You will need practice, experience, theoretical study and practical application before you can call yourself an expert.

Considering the advantages involved, there is no harm in investing time and effort in such a process. You may not learn programming to become a master programmer earn your daily bread out of it. However, it certainly will help you come up with new programs as and when you desire.

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No Voice Recognition In Linux – The Solution Is Just A Question Of Time

January 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Linux may be a very good platform and it may offer numerous distributions that operate as very good operating systems. However, there are some things that may compel the use of the computer to continue with Windows.

For starters, the absence of voice recognition programs compatible with Linux is a very big problem. Those who use Microsoft office and its inbuilt voice recognition technology were disappointed when the latest version of MS office did not include this feature.

However, Microsoft is in the process of reverting back to this feature in its office suite. Further, the company has offered in built voice recognition technology with its latest operating system itself. On the other hand, neither an in built program or a third party software application offers voice recognition technology for Linux.

At a time when people are dictating thousands of words to the computer in a single day, Linux is still stuck with programs that only facilitate scientific commands and other short words. Needless to say, this is one area where Linux is dragging its feet as compared to Windows.

Many critics point out that this is one reason why Linux can never be a reliable solution. Microsoft windows chose to invest it is time and effort in voice recognition and has made giant strides in this field today. On the other hand, Linux is dragging its feet simply because the makers of distributions feel that there is not enough demand.

Well, it is just a question of time before demand and supply balance each other and people come up with an advanced option for voice recognition for Linux. However, had this same problem arisen in case of Windows, one can be rest assured that no amount of public demand would have made a difference until the developers and Microsoft felt that voice recognition technology was worth investing.

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Simulators And Emulators – A Simple Solution For Using Linux Better

January 13, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Virtual simulators are not new to the world of computing. With every advancement in computer technology, there was growing realization that certain processes and solutions may become obsolete. In such a scenario, simulators were created to set up a platform within a platform which could host obsolete programs.

Running DOS based solutions in the latest Window operating system platforms is possible only if you make use of simulators. Well, the biggest disadvantage with setting up a Windows 95 operating system within a Windows XP system is that you will have to utilize each and every feature of the older system without any exceptions.

You may simply want the minimum configuration necessary to operate your DOS based program. However, since you would be using the entire platform, you would obviously face numerous problems in using the computer at high speed. Linux is particularly useful in this regard because it helps you opt for virtualization in a customized environment.

You can setup one distribution over the other in such a manner that the original distribution remains the full fledged one and the virtual distribution simply happens to be a bare bones platform suited for specific activities. This will help you prevent a situation where the older and less frequently used system consumes maximum power and leaves very little power for the newer and superior platform.

It is still possible to end up in a situation where this problem occurs. However, the Linux operating system, with its free editing option, helps you make the necessary changes. You simply have to take an existing distribution, make the necessary changes to simplify its resource consumption procedure and proceed to use it in your simulation software.

The fact that this option is available means that any individual with sufficient knowledge of programming languages can make the necessary changes. Unfortunately, this option is not available with other solutions.

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Linux For Dynamic Solutions Like ERM – The Perfect Match

January 11, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Enterprise Relationship Management moves away from traditional ideas related to cost control and focus on making smart use of network and network solutions to improve productivity. For a very long time, people presumed that installing Enterprise Relationship Management systems under the supervision of a consultant will be sufficient to improve productivity drastically.

However, most individuals underestimate the capacity of the network to solve their problems. Remember, no two enterprises are the same and what has worked for one entity need not work for another. In such scenario, flexibility and compatibility become very important.

This is where open software and solutions like Linux can make a huge difference. Linux is a platform and can host numerous open and closed source software applications. The fact that Linux is an open source operating system offers unimaginable flexibility. The initial task of fighting the enterprise relationship management plan on an open source network with varying standards may seem very difficult.

However, you are not going to focus on a universally acceptable model, right? You will simply focus on using Linux in such a manner that your enterprise and all its future needs are taken care of. What if you make a wrong assessment and end up having to make numerous changes to your setup?

Well, Linux is free and can be modified by any individual with knowledge of programming languages and skills. On the other hand, opting for a closed operating system for such an important aspect of your company’s functioning may pose numerous risks.

This is just one aspect where Linux and its open source characteristic are beneficial. There are numerous other benefits that the company will enjoy. As the company expands and as wholesale changes have to be made, Linux alone has the flexibility to expand or contract its dimensions and offer perfect solutions to the end user.

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Carry Your Computer In Your Pocket – Make A Linux Live CD

January 8, 2011 By Leave a Comment

One of the biggest disadvantages of working on a public computer is that you have to make do with whatever tools that have been installed on the device. If you are comfortable with a specific image editing software application but if it is not a part of the system, you have no choice but to make do with something inferior or less convenient.

Would it not be wonderful if you could carry your most favorite tools and computer resources in your pocket? That is exactly what the Live CD feature is all about.

If you prepare a Live CD of your favorite Linux distro along with your favorite software applications, you just have to pop the distro into your computer and you can work on the device as if it is your own computer.

All the files in the hard disk will remain the same. However, the operating system that is used to access these files will change. You can search for and download different software applications that can be installed on your Linux operating system distribution and can store it in your Live CD.

It is not just a question of convenience alone. In some cases, relying on the software application installed in the public computer may create a security risk. When you make use of the operating system you carry around in your pocket, you can be rest assured that it is free of viruses and will not spread your private data on the internet.

The advantages do not end here. You can also have different Live CDs prepared for different tasks. If you want to assess the configuration of the computer and if you want to improve its performance, you can use a Live CD that contains all necessary tools required for assessing and streamlining the performance of the computer. Once the Live CD is removed, your system will be as good as new.

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Linux Certification – Can Make A Huge Difference To Your Credibility

January 6, 2011 By Leave a Comment

The fact that Linux is an open source operating system and has been traditionally considered the favorite operating system of computer geeks often leads people to conclude that certification, testing and other such concepts are alien to the world of Linux.

Well, the idea of a single geek clattering over the keyboard on his or her Linux operating system computer may seem very cool and romantic. However, when a multimillion dollar organization decides to switch to Linux servers for all its internal computing requirements, it will certainly not be interested in employing a loner for this task.

The employee appointed to setup and run the server architecture will obviously be required to meet minimum standards. For very long time, experts in Linux found it very difficult to convince employers that they were indeed worth the money that they were asking. In the same way, employers often ended up with those Linux experts who bragged a lot but performed very little.

In 2000, Linux Professional Institute announced the Linux administrator certification program. Any person who completes this program will automatically be certified by the institute that he or she is worthy of operating as a Linux administrator. The program consists of 7 tests across 3 certification levels and was an object of wide criticism by geeks for being a regressive option.

However, a certain level of compliance with social norms is not a bad thing. The biggest advantage of the certification is that the employers are finding it easier to identify talent and employees are finding it easier to prove that they are indeed capable of taking on challenging tasks.

Clearing the certification is not a must but is certainly going to help you improve your chances when it comes to convincing employers that you are good at what you do. In a recessionary economy, the certification can make all the difference between a lay off and an interesting and well paying job.

 

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