What is the Linux Operating System? | Differences from Windows, Open-Source Server Use, Features, Pros and Cons, History, and Its Meaning Today

 Linux, created in 1991 by Linus Torvalds, is an open-source operating system that is free, highly stable, and secure. It is widely used in servers, supercomputers, and smartphones (through Android).

For everyday users, Windows is often enough. But for those who want to study computers in depth or pursue IT, learning Linux is an invaluable step.

If Windows symbolizes popularity and convenience, Linux is the invisible foundation that supports the internet and modern IT infrastructure.

Hello, this is Jay.

In the previous article, we explored the Windows operating system. Today, let’s take a closer look at Linux.


The Linux Mascot : Tux

Among the operating systems we encounter today, Linux is always mentioned alongside Windows. Linux may not be as visible, but in reality, it is one of the most widely used operating systems in modern society. It runs behind the scenes in the internet servers we rely on, in smartphones, and even in home appliances.

The history of Linux goes back to 1991, when Linus Torvalds, a student at the University of Helsinki in Finland, began developing it as a personal project. His goal was to create an operating system that anyone could use freely. To achieve this, he released the source code openly so developers around the world could contribute. This approach became the foundation of the open-source philosophy, where the global community develops and improves software collectively. Unlike Windows, Linux does not belong to a single company but has been advanced by a worldwide community.

In its early days, Linux was mainly used by experts and developers, making it seem intimidating for general users. It was largely command-line based, requiring text commands rather than graphical interaction. Over time, however, Linux evolved. Today, many distributions - such as Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and Linux Mint - make it easier for anyone to install and use. Ubuntu, in particular, is popular for beginners because of its simple installation process and user-friendly graphical environment.

Comparing Linux and Windows



One of Linux’s biggest advantages is that it is open-source and free. Unlike Windows, which requires a paid license, Linux can be freely downloaded and used by anyone. Its stability and security have also made it the standard for servers. The servers powering Google, Amazon, Naver, and countless other internet services run primarily on Linux. Even the Android operating system that drives most smartphones is based on Linux.

That said, there are downsides. Linux still lacks the broad compatibility that Windows offers. Many games and commercial applications are developed exclusively for Windows, making them difficult to run natively on Linux. Moreover, while Linux has become more user-friendly, some tasks still require knowledge of command-line operations, which can be a barrier for beginners.

Despite these challenges, Linux is essential for developers and server administrators. It is highly valued in professional environments such as programming, network management, security, and server operations. Over 90% of the world’s supercomputers run on Linux, and organizations like NASA and major research institutions rely on it for critical systems.

Linux may not dominate the personal computer space, but it is far more active in the unseen backbone of digital infrastructure. Every time we open a smartphone, visit a website, or watch a YouTube video, Linux servers are working in the background. If Windows is the most visible operating system to the average person, Linux is the underlying system that keeps the modern digital world running.

Linux in the Modern Era

Linux continues to evolve, with new distributions making it more approachable for individuals. It has also become the de facto standard in emerging fields like cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and the Internet of Things (IoT). Going forward, Linux will remain a vital part of digital life, quietly powering countless systems around us.

Windows vs. Linux in Perspective



For most people, Windows alone is sufficient. Everyday tasks like browsing, document editing, gaming, and video playback are easiest and most convenient in the Windows environment. Windows also offers the widest support for commercial software and hardware peripherals.

However, for those who want to deepen their understanding of computers or pursue IT careers, Linux is incredibly valuable. It represents the standard in areas like programming, server management, cybersecurity, and AI research. Learning Linux is not just about using a different OS - it’s about gaining insight into how computers really work.

Thus, the choice depends on your goals. For convenience, Windows is more than enough. For advanced learning and IT expertise, Linux is indispensable. In fact, many organizations adopt a dual approach: Windows for office PCs and productivity, and Linux for servers and backend systems. Rather than direct competitors, the two systems complement each other.


“Really, I’m not out to destroy Microsoft. That will just be a completely unintentional side effect.”
 -  Linus Torvalds

 

In the end, Linux may not always be visible, but it is a critical operating system that supports our everyday lives and digital society. If Windows transformed personal computing with convenience and accessibility, Linux has shaped the internet and server world with stability and openness. For those who want to gain a deeper understanding of IT, Linux is absolutely worth exploring.

As computing expands into cloud, AI, and IoT, Linux will continue to play an essential role - not just as a choice, but as a fundamental foundation.

In this article, we explored the history, features, and modern role of Linux.

In the next article, we’ll take a look at the Android operating system.

Thank you for reading, and I hope you have a wonderful day!


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Location: 대한민국 서울특별시

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