Linux OS Article

Introduction

Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17th 1991, by Linus Torvalds.

Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution.

Features

Linux provides many features such as:

Portable (Multiplatform)
Multitasking
Multi User
Multiprocessor (SMP) Support
Hierarchical File System
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
Wide Hardware Support
Dynamically linked shared libraries as static libraries
POSIX Compliant
Multiple Virtual Consoles
Multiple Filesystem Support
Multiple Networking Protocols (TCP/IP, IPX/SPX, Appletalk, AX 25)
Shell
Strong Security Model
Open Source

Pros/Cons

Linux has its pros and cons:

Pros	Cons
It's a very smart and powerful system, you practically have power over whatever you want and configure almost everything.	It isn't as user friendly as Windows or as 'straight out of the box'.
It's free and you can distribute your changes in Linux to help others.	There isn't a dedicated tech support, so getting 'fixes' for things is in your hands unless you want to subscribe to Enterprise Linux. However, you do get the software free so it's something to consider.
It consumes very little resources and space unlike Windows. So you can virtually run a system on 500MB of drive and 300mb of ram. Pretty impressive.	If you are a gamer, you will prefer Windows as most of the games aren't available but that's not to say you can't. Just not as much and as easy.
It can be run with Windows or inside of Windows if you don't want to jump ships completely.	Drivers don't really exist, there will be work around but users have reported problems when trying to use certain hardwares or old hardwares.
It's very easy to install and you don't need to install it straight away. If you just want to test the waters and see if you like it, you can boot Linux from a USB flash drive or CD and use it from there. It will boot just fine and you don't need to make changes to your hard drive - win / win.	It's probably better used as a dual boot rather than a Windows replacement due to the fact you can't get propriety programs on it and although they offer cousins, it won't be the same. Photoshop is Photoshop after all.

Extra Programs

Operating Systems: Windows, Apple, Chromium
Computer Types: Desktop, Laptop, Mobile etc
Linux based Systems: Ubuntu

Sources

Summary

In conclusion:

Linux is a superior system in many aspects when compared to Windows and Apple. Linux allows you to do pretty much anything you like within it and it's free. You do need to be somewhat experienced with computers if you want to use Linux to its fullest potential, so for newbies, Windows is a good choice. Pick wisely.