World of the Linux Server
Linux can be thought of as a computer Kernel. The Kernel is the underlying computer code which basically dictates how the software and hardware communicate, how they share resources, and how they interact with the user.
Linux can be used for personal computing, however is more commonly utilized as a server Operating System. These are most prevalent in Business Web Hosting, Web Servers or Mail Servers running some form of Linux Operating System software.
Linux is based on UNIX with one major difference – Open Source. Linux is open source software, and is without comparison one of the best examples to illustrate the positive effects of the open source software movement. As Linux is open source there is no one (or restricted) version of Linux.
Multiple versions of the Linux Operating System exist. These are fundamentally referred to as distributions or ‘distros’ and are again designed for use by both businesses as a Linux Server or for personal use. Some of the most popular versions of Linux include the Ubuntu Operating System, Fedora Operating System and of course Redhat Linux.
The major benefits of using the Operating System in a Linux Server include:
- Cost
- Security
- Hardware and Software compatibility
Ultimately Linux makes a whole lot of sense; however do to the overwhelming grip on the market from Microsoft and Mac, the Linux Server faces very tough competition.
