Welcome to the Linux world and get ready to dive into the fascinating world of Linux operating systems, or as we cool cats like to call it, Linux OS. If you are new to the whole open source scene or just want to change your current operating system with a new one then you have come to the right place. In this beginner’s guide, we will go through the basics of Linux and what are the advantages and why you should consider this operating system.
Table of Contents
Unveiling the Basics: What is Linux?
Linux is a robust, community-driven platform that powers everything from personal computers to servers and embedded systems. It is developed in such a way that it provides stability, security and flexibilty.
Why Choose Linux OS?
Freedom of Choice:
One of the main reasons why people go towards Linux is the freedom it offers. You have the liberty to choose from various distributions(distros), each tailored to provide different needs and preferences. Whether you are a developer, gamer or just a casual user, there is a Linux os distro available for your work.
Security Matters:
Linux is renowned for its security features. Because of its strong authorization structure and ongoing community watchfulness, it is less vulnerable to viruses and malware. For those who value security above everything else, this makes it a fantastic option.
Performance Prowess:
Linux OS is a lightweight operatng system which makes it run efficiently on older hardware and even if you have low specs machine you can easily run linux on it and hence for this reason it makes a go-to for servers.
Navigating the Linux OS Landscape: Choosing a Distro
Before diving into the Linux experience, you need to select a distribution that aligns with your needs. Here are a few popular choices:
Ubuntu:
Ubuntu is recognised for its user-friendly interface and that is why it si excellent choice for those transitioning from other operating systems. It is well supported and has a vast community and it comes with a wide range of pre-installed software.
Fedora:
Fedora may be a good option if you’re curious about cutting edge technology and want to try out some of the newest features. It is a testing ground for innovations that often make their way into other distros later on.
Linux Mint:
Linux Mint offers a familiar desktop enviroment and is perfect for users who appreciate a classic look and feel. It provides a user-friendly experience and users can easily learn it.
Installing Linux: A Step-by-Step Guide
Requirements
- 4GB or larger USB stick
- Microsoft Windows XP or later
- Rufus, a free USB stick writing tool
- An Linux OS ISO file
Step 1 – Launch Rufus
Step 2 – Insert your USB stick
Step 3 – Select the Ubuntu or Linux distro ISO file
Step 4 – Write the ISO
The writing process takes around 10 minutes or so depending on the speed of your flash drive
Step 5 – Insert the USB stick to the machine
Insert the USB stick to the machine where you want to install the Linux. Most computers allow you to select the boot device during startup. Choose the USB drive to begin the installation process.
Step 6 – Select the Install Ubuntu option
The installation takes time depending on the speed of your system
Getting Comfortable with the Linux Desktop
Once you have successfully installed Linux, you will get a desktop enviroment and the interface may vary depending on the distribution you have choosen, but most Linux desktop have a common elements:
Desktop Environment:
Linux has a variety of desktop enviroments such as GNOME, KDE and XFCE. These determines the looks and behaviour of your desktop.
Package Management:
Linux uses package managers to install or remove any software. There are commands like ‘sudo apt-get’ (Ubuntu/Debian) or ‘yum’ (Fedora) to manage your software.
Terminal Basics:
The terminal is a powerful tool that allows users to execute commands. You can perform basic commands lik ‘ls’ (list files) ‘cd’ (change directory) and ‘sudo’ (execute with administrative privilages) and many more.
Conclusion: Your Linux Journey Begins Here
Congratulations! You have taken the first steps to the world of Linux. You can explore and become more familiar with the operating system.
Remember Linux OS is all about choice and customization so dont forget to experiment and try out different things with it from tweaking the desktop enviroments to diving into the command line. Once you install Linux OS you can perform various linux commands to do various kinds of tasks. We have a comprehensive guide for beginners on essential linux commands.
