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Linux Distributions and How to Get Started

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Programmer Linus Torvalds built Linux (and named it after himself!) from a kernel, meaning the part of an operating system which communicates between software and hardware. Almost all Linux-related programs and ideas are open source, which means they are freely distributed and modified by users all over the world.

Linux allows users to totally customize their operating system. You can even run it alongside Windows in a dual-boot or virtual machine.

Because of this, many programmers flock to Linux for its customizability and friendly attitude toward change and communication, as opposed to the closed programming and proprietary holdings of Microsoft or Macintosh. Linux is known as "UNIX-like" because it is based on the same basic concept but does not conform to all UNIX standards. This nontraditional operating system works best on desktop computers because of the kind of hardware most Linux distributions should have to run, although you can run Linux on laptops with some thought and planning.

Linux users may use its operating systems alone or as part of a multi-boot system, wherein the same computer houses more than one operating system. A Linux operating system is known collectively as a distribution, which includes a wide collection of different components packaged together for specific kinds of users and needs, all free for public use. The most common Linux distribution is called Ubuntu, based on a system called Debian. Although these programs are free, they do require a period of adjustment and some programming knowledge, as changes are made using lines of code, similar to using the Microsoft DOS operating system of yore.

The transparency of Linux distributions means that users can find help and support in many places online. Since qualified programmers worldwide can examine the source code and publicize their own improvements, each user benefits from the pool of common knowledge.

LINKS:

Linux Packages - A list of Linux packages available for download.

Debian Packages - Packages for Debian distributions.

Beginner's Linux Guide

UNIX/Linux Basics

Linux Guides - An extensive guide to installing and using Linux

Linux Links - Links to information and resources for using Linux

Linux Commands - A large list of the most common Linux commands.

Shell Scripts - Learn to write shell scripts in Linux

Advanced Linux - A guide to advanced Linux programming

Downloading Linux - Steps in downloading Linux for installation

DistroWatch - A site devoted to updates for multiple distributions of Linux

Fedora Linux Documentation

RedHat Linux

10 Major Linux Distributions

Ubuntu Linux - A debian based system that has been rising in popularity in the last few years.

Small and Live UNIX Distributions

Linux Help - A source for answers and information on Linux systems.

Linux Commands Help

Linux Drivers - A list of drivers and compatible hardware for Linux distributions


Meeting Tomorrow provides consumers and business people with such solutions as: movie screen rental solutions, rent tv solutions, and laptop rental solutions. We also rent kiosk solutions.

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