What is Linux?

Linux is one kind of Free Open Source Software (FOSS). It is a robust, stable operating system that is suitable for servers, laptops and and desktops. I use it on all of my computers at home and at work. This includes all of my servers, desktop workstations, my laptop, and my Asus EePC netbook.

Linux is a very disruptive technology. Linux is disruptive because it is free in at least two ways. First, Linux is free because it costs nothing and can be downloaded free from the Internet. You do not have to pay for it, although you can pay for support if you want or need enterprise level support.

Second, Linux is free because it is unencumbered by the locked-down tactics of closed, proprietary software. I can view and even change the software if I want to, and I have on a couple occasions. In addition, no license keys are required and the software is mine to use as I choose without restriction on as many computers as I choose. I can share Open Source software with my friends and customers.

Not all Open Source Software is free. It is not necessary for Software to be free of charge in order to be Open Source. Open Source refers to the availability of the source code to the users of the software. This is the Openness.

To find out more, look around this site and take the Linux links in the Blogroll.

Be sure to visit my DataBook® web site at http://www.databook.bz, where I write and maintain two on-line only books about Linux, The DataBook for Linux Administrators and The DataBook for Linux Users.