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Linux Operating Systems
For years, Linux was an operating system that was used only by geeks and computer experts to provide a very reliable OS that was scalable and open source (basically FREE). Many Internet servers are still run with various versions of Linux often called kernels or distributions.
While Linux is still a very powerful operating system, it was not until recently that it has gained popularity. This is largely due to the addition of Linux distributions which feature very attractive user interfaces that look very similar to a Window or Mac based operating system.
Historically, Linux distributions had very archaic user interfaces similar to the old DOS based operating systems. This has changed a good bit as the popularity of Linux has risen.
Five of the most popular distributions of Linux are Mint, Ubuntu, Mageia, Fedora, and openSUSE.
1. Mint
Linux Mint is a version of the operating system that is focused on a modern user interface that is similar to a Windows or Mac based operating system. As of 2006, Linux Mint is the fourth most widely used home operating system behind Windows, Mac OS, and Ubuntu. As with many of the Linux distributions, one primary advantage to Linux Mint is that it is free and is constantly being improved based on feedback from the Linux community. This creates a robust operating system which tends to be very safe and reliable.
2. Ubuntu
Ubuntu is the most popular free operating system on the market today. It is used by roughly 20 million people which is a huge number for a free operating system. The Ubuntu community is very strong which has created a very sleek operating system which is very popular among computer lovers. Ubuntu has one of the most attractive user interfaces of any operating system including Windows and Mac OS. Ubuntu also has a large number of apps which are similar to mobile phone apps. These applications are very easy to install and use as if you were using an app on your mobile phone.
3. Mageia
Mageia was started in 2010 as an offshoot of another form of Linux, Mandriva Linux. While, Mageia is one of the newer Linux distributions, it is gaining popularity and has a loyal following. Along with many of the other newer Linux distributions, it has a very slick user interface which is a far cry from the days of a command line based operating system.
4. Fedora
Fedora is a feature packed Linux distribution that is geared towards high performance computers. It is recommended to be installed on 64-bit Intel compatible PC’s with at least 1GB memory and 10GB of disk space. This is a much more resource intensive Linux distribution than many of the others. Other distributions can be run with much less processor power, but these other distributions do not pack the punch of what Fedora has to offer.
5. OpenSUSE
OpenSUSE is one of the more popular Linux distributions mainly due to the fact that it has been around for a long time. The first SUSE distribution was released in 1994, making it one of the oldest Linux distributions still in existence. Because of this long run, openSUSE is a feature rich, stable operating system which is available for PCs as well as Servers. OpenSUSE is one of the only Linux distributions where an agreement exists between openSUSE and Windows to attempt to create distributions that will work better together. This makes openSUSE a popular choice for computer users who are wanting to give Linux a try.
Bottom Line
Linux is a very powerful operating system which is derived from UNIX, likely the most powerful operating system on the planet. No matter which distribution that you may choose, you will not be sorry for trying Linux. Mint, Ubuntu, Mageia, Fedora and openSUSE all have very vibrant user communities which would be more than happy to help as you enter the exciting world of Linux. Oh, did I also mention that it’s FREE? Download a Copy of Linux Today!
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Related Reading on Linux Operating Systems
A Look at Alternative Operating Systems
Quick History of the UNIX Operating System
The Merits of Free Operating Systems
Download Linux Operating System Today
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Tony L
I would debate about Fedora. Its on par with Ubuntu as far as RAM and CPU useage. It may not be as appealing as Ubuntu and is more for expirenced users. Linux’s strength is due in part to its diversity. A user can choose his/her DE and go from there. From more windows styled like KDE. To LXDE or Mate. Linux distros like Arch are super fast but require more work to get going. With Windows 8 costing $40.00 to upgrade too from W 7. Cost is good thing to mention but lets encourage Linux users to invest in their favorite distro.
Thanks though educating more users.
John
Tony, thanks for your comments… Some of my problems with Fedora lately is that I have an older laptop which is somewhat under powered. It’s funny you should mention Ubuntu. While it is popular, I am not a complete fan of the “Unity desktop”. Now Linux Mint, there’s a distro! I Started using Linux Mint about two years ago and just loved it. My laptop is currently running a 64bit version (11). I have not upgraded to 14 yet.
I do agree Linux does offer a distribution that meets just about everybody’s needs. I also, agree with you people should spend more time looking at Linux
Once again, thanks for sharing… BTW Nice site…:-)