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Organizations use a variety of software and technologies to perform their activities daily. However, only a few successful organizations can articulate what the systems include. Linux operating systems have grown in popularity among personal and commercial users throughout time.
Linux was primarily used for servers until a few years ago, and it was not deemed acceptable for desktops. However, its user interface and convenience of use have progressively improved in the last few years. Linux has matured to the point where it can effectively replace Windows on desktop computers. Hundreds of thousands of people use it every day all across the world. The following are the top nine reasons why.
What is Linux? Brief Overview
Linux is a free and open-source operating system, and just like any other operating system, it is made up of several software components. They collectively manage hardware resources and allow users to access the web or edit a text file in a text editor.
Since Linux is open-source, individuals can use, copy, study, and modify it in any way they like. In comparison, Microsoft Windows is a closed-source operating system. Let's have a look at some of its advantages:
- Because it is open-source, anyone with a basic understanding of programming can change it.
- Linux is simple to learn for novices.
- Thousands of programs/applications and Linux software are currently available for Linux operating systems, and the majority of them are free!
- You won't need an antivirus once you've installed Linux! Linux is a very safe operating system. Furthermore, it has a global development community that always works on improving security.
- Because of its stability and durability, Linux freeware is the OS of preference for global server giants like Amazon, Facebook, and even Google. A Linux-based server might run indefinitely without needing to be rebooted.
What is Linux used for?
1. Hosting Websites or Webapps
Many websites we visit daily are run on Linux—and for building one, an individual has to use the same. Perhaps more intriguing is how you can utilize a Linux-based web server, such as Dreamhost, to run your own personal RSS reader, Tiny Tiny RSS, or your Dropbox clone, OwnCloud.
These could, of course, be hosted on Linux at home. It's a little more involved, but it provides you with complete control over the data rather than placing it in the hands of a third party.
2. Run a Home Server for Backup, Streaming, Etc
A dedicated Linux box might be a better alternative that saves individuals from leaving the computer 24/7 merely to transfer files or download torrents. You may build a home server out of an old pc or a cheap new one that keeps backups, streams movies and music, seeds torrents, and performs various other functions silently in the corner. Nas4Free, FreeNAS, and even Ubuntu can be used to build one.
3. For Improving Smart Devices
Nearly every individual in today's world has at least one smart device that they use daily. Linux distributions expand the capabilities of these devices, providing a plethora of additional features. Linux has enabled a greater software scope and increased multimedia functionality, whether on a smartphone or a tablet. As a result, you get more robustness and functionalities to have a better experience.
4. To level-up Gaming Experience
The gaming market is constantly improving, which is something loved by gamers. Even if some people don't realize the modifications, this is an excellent answer to what Linux is used for. Linux is used to construct the operating systems for some of the top-rated games, resulting in improved support services and performance of the gaming devices.
PS, you can check here the difference between game servers and web servers.
5. Stimulates Telecommunication
Every network understands that it must grow with technology to remain ahead and successful. The embedded devices used in the telecommunications business are an outstanding example. Due to the ease with which Linux may be configured, Linux is installed on the majority of network devices. Linux platforms increase subscriber accessibility too and disseminate network transmissions. Moreover, a network's information gets more secured from unfamiliar systems by deploying Linux in firewalls.
6. Improves Privacy And Security
In terms of security, Linux users provide more advantages when compared to Windows or Mac OS. Linux has protection integrated into its core design in numerous ways, unlike proprietary operating systems.
The increasingly popular open-source operating system has a lot of freedom, is flexible, and allows anyone to fix the bugs. Linux operating system architectures and components make malware more difficult to spread and prevent systems from getting exposed to malicious attacks.
7. Revitalizes Old or Slow Systems
This is Linux's most prominent and popular application—and one of its best. If a computer or even laptop is running slow and underperforms, then another OS isn't ideal to use.
Instead, installing a lightweight Linux distro (like Lubuntu or, if you're a bit savvier, Archbang) will be a better idea as it offers a faster and brand new experience once again. It will offer a lot of things the Windows system can, and you'll be able to perform far more actions.
8. Increases Usability of Chromebook
You'd be surprised how much you can get done in Chrome OS. There are a lot of great Chrome apps out there for editing audio, video, images, coding, and more—but sometimes, you need a more powerful desktop app you're familiar with. Luckily, you can install Linux alongside Chrome OS easily and get access to a traditional desktop with a bunch of apps. It won't get you Photoshop or something of that calibre, but if all you need is a bit of a safety net, it's perfect.
9. Troubleshoots Other Computers
You'll be astonished to know how much you can accomplish using Chromebook with Linux. There are many wonderful Chrome apps for producing music, video, photos, scripting, and more—and that mixed with a more capable desktop software can do wonders.
Fortunately, you can easily install Linux and Chrome OS and gain access to a regular desktop with various apps. The best part is that you'll be able to have a bit of extra security.
Why is Linux so successful in the enterprise?
One of the biggest reasons for Linux to succeed is its versatility and open-source environment. With a wide range of distributions or Distros available, users can transfer it to almost any computing platform possible.
Moreover, Linux is highly inexpensive. Various businesses weren't interested in the free version of Linux because they didn't trust it, but its low-cost commercial version was tough to pass. Even more significantly, Linux could run on commodity hardware, which makes it cheap for a small or medium-sized business to go with.
Many Linux distributions on the web have been up and operating for years without needing to be rebooted. These characteristics will ensure that Linux remains in the enterprise for many years. So whether you're a sysadmin or a network administrator, it's a good idea to learn about it or get started with the same.
Conclusion
Linux has something for everyone, whether you only need a stable operating system or a comprehensive platform for your group or organization.
There are many other underrated ways to use Linux that you may discover on the fly. Since it is a high-performance operating system, the benefits it offers are growing in importance over time.
I'm fascinated by the IT world and how the 1's and 0's work. While I venture into the world of Technology, I try to share what I know in the simplest way with you. Not a fan of coffee, a travel addict, and a self-accredited 'master chef'.