Learn Linux Right Now!
Linux is everywhere from the phone in your pocket to the supercomputer on the desk. 🐧
If this blog has reached you, it’s high time to dive into the realm of Linux, especially if you’re associated with IT in any capacity. Learning Linux is not just beneficial; it’s imperative, given that Linux is omnipresent, shaping the technological landscape in ways you may not even be aware of. As you read this, keep in mind that the blog itself is hosted on a Linux server. Whether it’s smart devices, IoT gadgets, or the majority of top websites, Linux is the beating heart behind them.
1. Open Source & Free
Linux is an open-source operating system, allowing you to access and modify its code to tailor it to your specific needs. This flexibility has given rise to various Linux distributions like Red Hat and Debian. As Linux is free this makes it an attractive choice for individuals and organizations alike. You can modify kernel parameters, create custom distros, or even build specialized Linux distributions for embedded systems.
While Linux itself is free, some enterprise distributions like Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) charge for support services.
2. Security:
The open-source nature of Linux contributes to robust security. With a large community scrutinizing its code, any flaws
or bugs are quickly identified and patched. This stands in contrast to closed-source systems like Windows, where code
review is limited to internal employees.
The Linux kernel security team typically patches vulnerabilities within hours or days of discovery.
Major security features like SELinux and AppArmor provide additional layers of protection.
Customizability & Hardware Compatibility
Linux’s open-source nature extends to its adaptability for different devices. From desktop distributions like Ubuntu, Kali to the tiniest IOT which has smart infront of them, Linux can be customized to meet specific requirements. This versatility is unmatched by operating systems like macOS and Windows. Linux can run on devices with as little as 4MB of RAM up to supercomputers.
Android, which powers billions of smartphones, runs on a modified Linux kernel.
Server/Cloud Administration
Linux dominates the landscape of server administration, DevOps, and cloud computing. Even major cloud service providers like Microsoft Azure offer Linux servers. Its reliability is crucial in environments where uptime is non-negotiable. Popular web hosting control panels like cPanel and Plesk are Linux-based.
Over 96.3% of the top 1 million web servers run on Linux.
Career Opportunities & Knowledge Transferability
Linux skills are required for roles like DevOps Engineer, System Administrator, and Cloud Architect. Proficiency in Linux is a valuable asset for various IT jobs, especially in areas like server administration and cloud computing. The skills acquired are transferable to other Unix-like systems, making it easier to adapt to different command-line interfaces.
Note: The average salary for Linux professionals is typically 10-20% higher than other IT roles.
Community Support
The best part of any software is its community support and linux is no different. If you encountered a problem then other people might have encountered them before you can search and find the soulution easily in linux. Websites like AskUbuntu and Linux Forums have millions of solved queries. Major distributions maintain extensive documentation and user forums.
In conclusion, the benefits of learning Linux are numerous. While the initial learning curve might seem steep, the sense of control it provides over every aspect of your computer is unparalleled. Make it a skill on your resume, and you’ll find yourself equipped for the ever-evolving landscape of IT.