Free as in Freedom
Today is an auspicious day, for today is the day that I will address a wonderful topic that is very important to me. That topic is, of course, the Linux operating system.
Linux was created in the early 90′s by computer science student Linus Torvalds as a free, open-source alternative to UNIX. Today, various software companies combine Torvalds’ Linux kernel (or a modified version of it) with higher-level open-source software like windowing systems in order to make what is called a Linux distribution (a complete operating system like Windows, Mac OS, or Solaris). Examples of Linux distributions include Fedora, openSUSE, and Mandriva.
I love the concept of Linux because of the freedom aspect. Firstly, many excellent Linux distributions (like the ones listed above) can be downloaded in their entirety for absolutely no cost. Secondly, nearly every part of the distribution can be freely modified in any way you like (the kernel source code is available, so even the most basic level of the operating system can be recompiled/reconfigured). This has allowed developers to port Linux to all kinds of interesting platforms. You can now run Linux on your wireless router, your cell phone, and even your LEGO Mindstorms robots!
I also like Linux because of the “hacker” community it has fostered (note… a Linux hacker is not necessarily the same thing as a malicious hacker who writes computer viruses). Linux users typically embrace the “geekiness” inherent in their operating system of choice. They are excited to have a way to “rebel” against software monopolies like Microsoft. Needless to say, this unique atmosphere makes me feel right at home. It’s like the hippie movement of the software world!
Most importantly, I like Linux because it works. It’s relatively easy to install on any computer (make sure you don’t inadvertently over-write an existing Windows installation!). The modern distributions give you basically all the ease of use of a Windows or Mac machine. There’s all kinds of free software you can download. Here is an example of what a Mandriva desktop looks like, using the KDE window manager.
In summary, Linux is cool. If you don’t think so, you are in danger of acquiring the “technologically challenged” label as Linux becomes the next big thing.
Posted: October 17th, 2007 under Engineering.