Welcome to #90DaysOfDevOps! Today, we're embarking on a journey into the fascinating world of Linux. In this introductory guide, we'll explore what Linux is, dive into its rich history, get acquainted with popular Linux distributions, and even learn how to install Linux on a virtual machine or spare computer.
What is Linux?
Linux is an open-source, Unix-like operating system kernel. The kernel is the core of the operating system, responsible for managing hardware resources, memory, and peripheral devices. Around this kernel, various Linux distributions, or distros, are built.
A Brief History of Linux
Linux has an inspiring origin story. It was created in 1991 by Linus Torvalds, a Finnish computer science student. Linus shared his creation on Usenet, inviting collaboration from fellow programmers worldwide. This spirit of open collaboration led to the rapid growth and development of Linux.
Key Points about Linux:
Open Source: Linux is open-source, meaning its source code is freely available, allowing anyone to view, modify, and distribute it.
Variety of Distributions: Linux comes in various distributions (distros), each with its package management system, software selection, and configurations. This diversity caters to different use cases and preferences.
Stability and Security: Linux is known for its stability and security. It's widely used in servers, embedded systems, and even on the International Space Station.
Community-Driven: The Linux community is vast and active. Developers, enthusiasts, and organizations collaborate to improve and maintain the kernel and software.
Popular Linux Distributions
Linux comes in many flavors, thanks to its open-source nature. Here are some popular Linux distributions:
Ubuntu: Known for its user-friendly interface and robust community support, Ubuntu is often recommended for Linux beginners.
Debian: Ubuntu is actually based on Debian. Debian is known for its stability and adherence to free and open-source software principles.
Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL): A commercial distribution popular in enterprise environments. CentOS, a community-driven project, was also widely used until its shift to CentOS Stream.
Fedora: An upstream project for RHEL, Fedora is known for its cutting-edge features and frequent updates. Serves as a testing ground for new technologies before they make their way into RHEL.
Arch Linux: A rolling-release distribution for more experienced users who prefer to build their system from the ground up.
openSUSE: Known for its flexibility, openSUSE offers both a stable release (Leap) and a rolling-release version (Tumbleweed).
Installing a Linux Distribution on a Virtual Machine
Now, let's get our hands dirty and install a Linux distribution on a virtual machine. Virtualization allows you to run multiple operating systems on a single physical machine.
Choose a Virtualization Software: Popular options include VirtualBox, VMware, and KVM/QEMU.
Download a Linux ISO: Visit the website of your chosen Linux distribution and download the ISO file for your desired edition (e.g., Ubuntu Desktop).
Install Virtualization Software: Install and set up your chosen virtualization software.
Create a Virtual Machine: Open your virtualization software and create a new virtual machine. Configure the virtual hardware settings, such as CPU, RAM, and storage.
Install Linux: Start the virtual machine and boot it from the downloaded Linux ISO file. Follow the installation wizard to install Linux on the virtual machine.
Complete Setup: Once the installation is complete, go through the initial setup, including user creation and system configuration.
Explore Linux: Congratulations! You now have a Linux distribution up and running on your virtual machine. Explore the command line, install software, and get familiar with the Linux environment.
Linux is a versatile, open-source operating system that has transformed the world of computing. Whether you're a developer, system administrator, or simply curious about technology, Linux offers a wealth of opportunities for learning and exploration.
As we continue our journey in #90DaysOfDevOps, remember that Linux will be a key player in many of the tools and technologies we'll encounter. So, embrace the penguin and get ready for a Linux-powered adventure!
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