What is Linux?

On the one hand, Linux is just another Unix operating system. People like its technical quality, performance, stability (despite the development speed), the wide range of software, worldwide support, comprehensive and easy-to-read documentation, clean design and user-friendly desktops. It's just fun to work with. But the main reason Linux became so popular is: it is Open Source! Basically, the rules of the game are: f

• all users have the right to redistribute the software
• the source code is available to all users
• any publicly distributed modifications/enhancements to Open Source products must be Open Source as well

The development method differs from conventional methods, but there is no difference from the user's perspective; Open Source products have well defined release numbers, and companies offer professional support (which they charge for!). To learn more about Open Source, try opensource.org.