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โ‡ฑ An Introduction to Linux Basics | DigitalOcean


An Introduction to Linux Basics

Updated on August 2, 2021
๐Ÿ‘ An Introduction to Linux Basics

Introduction

Linux is a family of free and open-source operating systems based on the Linux kernel. Operating systems based on Linux are known as Linux distributions or distros. Examples include Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, CentOS, Gentoo, Arch Linux, and many others.

The Linux kernel has been under active development since 1991, and has proven to be extremely versatile and adaptable. You can find computers that run Linux in a wide variety of contexts all over the world, from web servers to cell phones. Today, 90% of all cloud infrastructure and 74% of the worldโ€™s smartphones are powered by Linux.

However, newcomers to Linux may find it somewhat difficult to approach, as Linux filesystems have a different structure than those found on Windows or MacOS. Additionally, Linux-based operating systems depend heavily on working with the command line interface, while most personal computers rely on graphical interfaces.

This guide serves as an introduction to important command line concepts and skills and equips newcomers to learn more about Linux.

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Watโ€™s with the weird indentations yo?

Excellent Guide! This is by far the best yet summarized reference for anyone who wants to get started quickly, for newcomers and advanced users. Thank you, DigitalOcean!

This is a good intro, but I need more. ๐Ÿ™‚ For example, at the beg, you mention Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, CentOS, Gentoo, and Arch Linux, and Iโ€™ve seen mention of Gnome, Mate, xfce or something. And then thereโ€™s Mint and Cinnamon too. I know there are layers? But I donโ€™t understand that hierarchy/structure yet. ?? Thanks!

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