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Table of Contents Link to heading

Linux Operating System Link to heading

a combination of software called GNU/Linux which defines the> operating system.

  1. Linux is the kernel component, which is the core part of an operating system.

GNU Link to heading

the free software that surrounds the kernel and provides open source equivalents of many common UNIX commands.

It provides an extensive collection of many programs applications, libraries, developer tools, and games.

Linux Link to heading

the Linux kernel, which is the core of the operating system.

The kernel is loaded at boot time and stays running to manage every aspect of the functioning system.

Key functions include a system call interface, process management, memory management, virtual filesystems, networking, and device drivers.

Open Source Link to heading

Historically, most software has been issued under a closed-source license, meaning that you get the right to use the executable program or machine code, but cannot see the source code.

The development of Linux closely parallels the rise of open-source software - which allows you to obtain the software source code and to modify it for your own use.

Distributions Link to heading

The Linux kernel, tools, and suite of applications that come bundled together.

Take Linux and the GNU tools, add some user-facing applications (a web browser) and an email client, then you have a full Linux distribution.

There are distributions suited to every imaginable purpose. A distribution can be designed to focus on running:

  • Servers
  • Desktops
  • Industry-specific tools (e.g., electronics design or statistical computing).

User Interface Link to heading

There are two basic types of interfaces that allow users to interact with the OS.

Graphical User Interface (GUI) Link to heading

Applications present themselves in windows that can be resized and moved around.

  • There are menus and tools to help users navigate.

Command-Line Interface (CLI) Link to heading

A text-based interface to the computer.

  • The CLI receives commands from a user in the form of lines of text.