Intro to Linux

Desktop Linux is an alternative to Windows and MacOS that is loaded with advantages.

Proven

Linux operating systems run the cloud, the web, and embedded systems around the world. The first version of Linux was released in 1991 and it has grown in influence since then. Linux operating systems are engineered by developers at Intel, Google, Amazon, IBM, Samsung, and many more. Both super computers and banks rely on Linux for speed and security. While there are many contributors to Linux, it is licensed as community software and is lead by a non-profit organization.

Flexible and Open

Linux is a free and open source technology. This means that anyone is free to review and modify the underlying code. This advantage is what has enabled Linux's success in the enterprise space. It also means that is fairly easy for users to find a desktop operating system that fits their specific work flow.

Unlike MacOS or Windows, there is not a single version of a desktop Linux operating system. In fact, there hundreds of different versions of Linux operating systems available for download. These Linux OSs are commonly referred to as Linux distributions, or distros.

The volume of distros available directly contribute the the flexibility of the Linux desktop. However, this selection also means that there are a lot of choices, which can be overwhelming for new users. But, you have friends to help you discover the desktop that is best for you.

Private

Most Linux distros are community lead. And people like their privacy. As a result, most Linux distributions do not use telemetry and analytics to monitor how you are using your software. You can take comfort knowing your computer belongs to you.

Getting started with Linux

Below is a collection of articles to get new users introduced to desktop Linux. For the full collection of articles, checkout the intro tag and check out the main site to find all site content.