I
n only a few years, Linux has moved from being considered a specialty
operating system into the mainstream. Precompiled and configured Linux
systems can be installed with no technical expertise. Versions of Linux run
on all kinds of devices, from PCs to handhelds (see
www·linuxdevices·com
)
to game consoles (such as PlayStation 3) to supercomputers. In short, Linux
has become a system that can be run almost anywhere by almost anyone.
On both desktop and server computers, Linux has become a formidable oper-
ating system across a variety of business applications. Today, large enterprises
can deploy thousands of systems using Linux distributions from companies
such as Red Hat, Inc. and Novell, Inc. Small businesses can put together the
mixture of office and Internet services they need to keep their costs down.
The free and open source software (FOSS) development model that espoused
sharing, freedom, and openness is now on a trajectory to surpass the quality
of other operating systems outside of the traditional Linux servers and tech-
nical workstations. What were once weak components of Linux, such as
easy-to-use desktops and personal productivity applications, have improved
at a rapid pace. In areas of security, usability, connectivity, and network
services, Linux has continued to improve and outshine the competition.
Computer industry heavy-hitters such as Microsoft and Oracle have taken
notice of Linux. Microsoft has struck agreements with Linux companies
including Novell, Linspire, and Xandros to form partnerships that primarily
protect those companies against threatened Microsoft lawsuits. Oracle has
begun producing its own Linux system called Unbreakable Linux, to try to
stem the flow of customers to Red Hat Enterprise Linux.
What does this all add up to? A growing swirl of excitement around the
operating system that the big guys can't seem to get rid of. For people like
3
IN THIS CHAPTER
Understanding Linux
Using Linux
Linux myths, legends, and FUD
Starting with Linux
