What Is Linux?
Author: Domeny.ForSale editorial team Published
In brief: Linux is an operating system kernel: software that acts as an intermediary between programs and computer hardware. In everyday usage, the name also refers to complete systems built on this kernel, such as Ubuntu, Debian or Linux Mint. You can use them instead of Windows for work and everyday tasks, but before switching, you need to check that the applications and devices you need are compatible.
Kernel, system and distribution — how do they differ?
An operating system manages a computer and allows you to run programs. Its central component, the kernel, allocates memory and processor time to applications and handles devices through drivers. Linux is just such a kernel, not a single ready-made product with a fixed desktop appearance.
A Linux distribution is a complete package: the kernel, system tools, an installer, an update mechanism and selected applications. Versions for personal computers usually also include a graphical desktop environment, with a desktop, menus, windows and settings. This is why two computers running Linux can look and behave differently.
Many distributions use tools from the GNU project, hence the name GNU/Linux. However, not every system with a Linux kernel belongs to this group. Android also uses this kernel, but has a different set of core components and its own application ecosystem — an Android application does not automatically become a desktop Linux application as a result.
What is Linux used for?
On a laptop or desktop computer, Linux lets you browse the internet, use email, create documents, write code and play multimedia. Available software includes Firefox, LibreOffice and developer tools. Browser-based services can often be used much as they are on other systems, although compatibility may need to be checked for specific features.
Linux is also used on servers: computers that provide services to other devices. It can run websites, databases, file services or business applications. A graphical desktop is often unnecessary on a server; an administrator manages the system remotely using commands and tools that automate tasks.
The Linux kernel is also found in routers, industrial devices and small computers such as the Raspberry Pi. However, the mere fact that a device uses Linux does not mean its user can freely install any programs on it.
Is Linux free and secure?
The Linux kernel is released under a free software licence that allows its code to be used, examined, modified and distributed under specified conditions. Open source code means you can inspect how a program works, not that there are no rules governing its use. The licences for individual components of a distribution may differ.
Many popular distributions can be downloaded and used without a licence fee. Technical support, implementation services or specific products may come at a cost. A free system therefore does not necessarily mean a cost-free migration, particularly when a business needs training and software adaptation.
Linux is not immune to every threat. Security depends, among other things, on updates, configuration, passwords and the sources of installed programs. Administrator permissions limit accidental changes to the system, but will not protect against every user error. Backups remain necessary regardless of the system you choose.
What might cause difficulties after switching from Windows?
The most important difference concerns application availability. A program designed for Windows usually cannot simply be installed and run on Linux. Compatibility layers such as Wine help run some of these applications, but do not guarantee that every feature will work correctly.
The same applies to games. Proton, a tool used by Steam, allows many Windows titles to run, but some anti-cheat systems may pose an obstacle. You need to check a particular game’s compatibility and current requirements before changing systems.
Problems may also affect specialist applications, a company VPN, printers, fingerprint readers or graphics card features. It is best to confirm device support in the documentation from the manufacturer and your chosen distribution. For office documents, being able to open a file does not guarantee that its layout, macros and all features will be preserved exactly.
For example, Linux may be sufficient for someone who works mainly in a browser and writes simple documents. However, it may make work more difficult for a graphic designer who depends on a particular application available only on Windows or macOS. It is wiser to start with a list of required programs than by choosing how the desktop looks.
How can you try Linux without removing your current system?
As a starting point, you could consider Ubuntu or Linux Mint — these are practical options for someone looking for a ready-to-use desktop, not the only right choices. Choose a release that is still supported; check its end-of-support date and hardware requirements on the project’s official website. For everyday work in a graphical environment, you do not need to know how to use the terminal, a tool for entering commands, although it can help with troubleshooting.
Many distributions offer a live mode, which lets you run the system from a USB flash drive without installing it on your computer’s drive. Here is a short testing procedure:
- Back up important files and download the installation image from the distribution’s official website.
- Write the image to a USB flash drive using a tool for creating bootable media. This operation deletes the data on the selected USB flash drive.
- Boot the computer from this drive and choose to try the system rather than install it.
- Check Wi-Fi, sound, the camera, an additional monitor and the computer’s sleep function.
Live mode does not require changing disk partitions, but it still allows you to perform operations on accessible files. It may also run more slowly than an installed system. Before deciding to install it, use it to complete one of your typical tasks — this will tell you more than simply looking around the desktop.
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