Every expert in Linux started in the same place you are now, with a blinking cursor, many questions, and a desire to learn.
The first time, when I opened a Linux terminal, I was confused, not excited. The desktop was empty, there were no clear buttons to click, and there was no pop-up that would guide me. There was just a black window with a blinking cursor.
I didn't know where to start and I was asking myself, "Where do I even start?"
You likely experienced the same feelings, if you have recently installed Ubuntu, or started a Linux virtual machine, or logged into your first server.
The good news is that every experienced Linux administrator, cloud engineer, and cybersecurity professional has once found themselves in that exact position.
Nobody starts out as an expert.
Learning Linux depends on curiosity, patience, and daily practicing – not on being good with computers.
If you are willing to invest your time, Linux will provide you with skills that are useful in system administration, cloud computing, DevOps, cybersecurity, software development, and many other technology careers.
This guide serves as the first step on that journey.
What is Linux?
The operating system in question is Linux. It comprises the Linux kernel that acts as core software for managing hardware and processing communication among various applications.
It is better to think of a computer as an orchestra.
The processor, RAM, hard disk, keyboard, network adapter, and monitor act as orchestra musicians. But without a conductor, these musicians would find it hard to perform as a unit.
Linux is the conductor here. It organizes the workings of all constituents of your computer into a single unit.
When you save a file or log on to Wi-Fi, Linux is working hard to perform dozens of tasks in the background.
What Is the Purpose of the Operating System?
The operating system is much more than what you see when you boot up your computer. It is responsible for many functions, including:
- Memory management of different applications.
- Scheduling of time on the CPU to enable multiple applications to run simultaneously.
- File and directory management.
- User management and authorization of user access.
- Device control.
- Network communication.
- Provision of safe environment for programs.
Without the operating system, the computer will not have any mechanism to use its hardware.
The History of Linux
One thing that endears Linux to the tech community is its origin.
In 1991, Linus Torvalds was a university student developing a new operating system kernel for himself. He made his work public and invited participation.
He soon got responses from developers all around the world. Some fixed bugs. Others improved the system. Many contributed their ideas.
Thus, over many years, this joint project became one of the most important software developments of all times.
In present-day reality, Linux is used for everything, from embedded devices to millions of users using clouds.
Open Source: The Importance of Open-Source Software
A major reason why Linux is unique is that it is open source. The availability of the source code means that anyone can study, modify and share it according to its licensing agreement.
This feature provides one of the biggest advantages for people who want to learn, as it enables them to get deeper knowledge of how the product works and even contribute to its future.
Use of the model of development based on openness is one of the factors that led to the success of Linux.
The Uses of Linux
You might assume that Linux is solely utilized by developers. However, the truth is that Linux is prevalent all over.
Linux can run:
- Web servers
- Cloud computing infrastructure
- Supercomputers
- Android mobile devices
- Smart televisions
- Home routers
- Raspberry Pi
- Internet of Things products
- Enterprise software
- Systems that use Docker container technology
So every time you view a website, watch a movie, or use a web-based application, chances are Linux is being used.
Reasons for Learning Linux Now
Although technology is continuously changing, Linux continues to be among the most important skills to have.
Different companies are using the Linux system because of its reliability and versatility.
By knowing Linux, you can start a career as:
- Linux Systems Administrator
- DevOps Engineer
- Cloud Engineer
- Site Reliability Engineer
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Penetration Tester
- Software Developer
- IT Support Specialist
Regardless of whether you are interested in a career in technology, having a strong knowledge of Linux will definitely help you better understand how modern computing works.
Linux Vs Windows
The question of which is better: Linux or Windows arises often. The fact is both meet different needs.
While Windows seeks to deliver an optimized desktop experience to the greatest number of users possible, Linux delivers flexibility, versatility, reliability, and advanced management tools.
Instead of asking the question of which system is superior, it would be better to ask which meets your objectives better.
If you are interested in servers, cloud computing, automation, DevOps, and cybersecurity, then Linux is the way to go.
Common Myths About Linux
There are many myths about Linux when it comes to the first people hearing about it.
"Linux is meant only for hackers."
That is not the case. It is used by individuals such as students, educators, programmers, companies, scientists, and IT professionals around the world.
"Linux is very difficult."
Like every other skill, learning about Linux requires practice. Nevertheless, the basics can be learned easily provided that you already have some understanding of principles instead of simple command memorization.
"You must have to program before learning about Linux."
This is not needed. Although programming helps, you do not have to learn it before learning.
"Linux cannot have any software."
On the contrary, there are lots of software applications available for various purposes like productivity, software development, multimedia applications, network applications, virtualization, etc.
How Should One Begin Learning?
If I had to start fresh today, the course I would follow is:
- Download an easy-to-use Linux distro such as Ubuntu.
- Learn simple navigation via the terminal.
- Practice key terminal commands consistently.
- Discover what happens in a Linux file system.
- Get to grips with users, groups, and permissions.
- Understand simple shell scripting.
- Implement small projects, such as a web server or backup automation.
What matters is not learning quickly but learning consistently.
Twenty minutes of daily concentrated learning can bring you impressive results.
Key Takeaways
- Linux operates as one of the key operating systems used in the world.
- It is also responsible for a great share of the internet and the contemporary cloud system utilization.
- It is beneficial to learn Linux since it can provide more opportunities for job search and development.
- It is unnecessary to memorize everything, the procedure consists mainly in gaining understanding and practice.
- The professionals were all beginners at some point.
Having understood the significance of Linux, let's now move on to the actual usage of it.
In the following post, we will study the Linux command prompt, learn the operational modes of commands and start using the command line confidently.
What was earlier a perplexing blinking cursor will become a tool that will help you perform complicated tasks using Linux.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can get most distributions of Linux without charge, then download, install, and upgrade them for free.
The recommended Linux distributions for novice users are Ubuntu, Linux Mint, and those with strong communities and documentation.
It's possible. A lot of people use Linux without coding at all.
Definitely. Linux is an essential skill with several servers, tools for security, and cloud technology application.
Practice with basic distribution of Linux will make you familiar with its functions in a few weeks' time.
