Computer Repair in Kalamazoo

So you’ve heard about this software called Linux, but you don’t know what it is? In this article we hope to take the mystery out of Linux and show why it’s a relevant alternative!

What is Linux?

The 2 most well known commercial computer operating systems are Mac OS (Apple) and Windows (Microsoft). Linux is arguably the best known alternative to those two.

Linux is an open source operating system. An operating system is the software that manages all of the computer’s basic operations, such as displaying characters on the screen, determining which keys you’ve pressed on the keyboard, when the CPU gets too hot, it turns on the internal fan to cool it, and directs storing data on the hard drive. The operating system handles all of these basic functions, so that the applications don’t have to. Otherwise, every program would have to do all these things which would make each application more complicated and resource intensive.

Why is it popular?

The single biggest demographic attracted to Linux is people who need or want more control over their operating system. The Linux kernel was created by Linus Torvalds and was made available to the world for free. Torvalds then invited others to add to the kernel provided that they keep their contributions free. Thousands of programmers began working to enhance Linux, and the operating system grew rapidly. Because it was FREE and ran on PCs, it gained a sizeable audience among developers.

Is there more than one Linux?

Different “flavors” of Linux exist. The main differing aspect of them is typically the user interface and how it interacts with applications, file management, and whether the version is totally free or not. These different versions are called “distributions.” Some of the most popular distros (short for distributions) were initially Red Hat, Fedora, and OPENSuse. Currently popular distros are Linux Mint and Ubuntu, but there are many variants! Chromebooks also use a version of Linux called Chrome OS. Many devices, and even automobiles use a version of embedded Android (also a version of Linux optimized primarily for mobile devices).

What’s the catch?

Linux is great for common everyday tasks such as surfing the web, email, creating documents, etc., but there are some caveats to using it. Few of the major desktop PC manufacturers are promoting Linux on the desktop. This keeps the install base pretty low as a percentage of the overall market. As a result, software developers of games and productivity tools do not typically make Linux versions of their products. So for an ordinary consumer who wants to play games and use popular productivity tools this is something that should be considered. Also access to compatible drivers for accessories could be an issue depending on the distro. These aren’t insurmountable obstacles but ones that you definitely need to think about.

Linux is a great second option, especially for folks who want to get more life out of slightly older computers as Linux is typically “lighter weight” than modern Windows or Mac OS. Generally though we would only recommend making the switch for people who are comfortable installing an operating system, tinkering around with settings and terminal commands. If you’re looking for something easy to use and well supported, it’s best to stick with Windows or Mac OS. The next time you have a computer question, remember to ask the experts at Geek Easy Computers!

Adonis Pointer is a photographer, a collector of vintage razors, and a certified technology geek! Adonis has been involved in computer technology since well, a LONG time! He has been involved in nearly every aspect of the industry from sales to repair to training to consulting. As the Social Media Manager he writes the majority of the posts on the Geek Easy Computers blog.