Introduction to Linux
Understand Linux, its history, distributions, and why it is widely used in servers and cybersecurity.
Introduction to Linux
What is Linux?
Linux is an open-source operating system kernel. An operating system manages hardware and provides services that applications use.
Linux-based operating systems are used in:
- Web servers
- Cloud computing
- Supercomputers
- Embedded devices
- Cybersecurity environments
Linux vs Windows
Linux is popular because it offers flexibility, stability, security features, and extensive command-line tools.
Windows is widely used for desktop computing, while Linux is especially common in servers and cloud environments.
Popular Linux distributions
- Ubuntu — beginner-friendly and widely used for servers.
- Debian — known for stability.
- Fedora — features relatively recent technologies.
- Kali Linux — designed for penetration testing and security work.
- Linux Mint — beginner-friendly desktop distribution.
The Linux architecture
A simplified Linux system consists of:
- Hardware
- Kernel
- Shell
- System utilities
- Applications
The kernel manages memory, processes, devices, and system resources.
The shell allows users to interact with the operating system through commands.
First terminal commands
whoami
uname -a
date
pwd
These commands display your username, system information, date, and current directory.
Practical exercise
- Open your Linux terminal.
- Run all four commands.
- Identify your username and Linux distribution.
- Write down three reasons Linux is useful for web hosting.
Knowledge check
- What is the Linux kernel?
- Name two Linux distributions.
- What is the purpose of a shell?