Linux Operating System Overview

Study Notes

Linux is an open-source operating system (OS).
An OS is software that manages hardware resources, such as the CPU, memory, and storage.
The OS acts as an intermediary between applications and hardware.
Linux's open-source nature allows users to contribute, modify, and enhance the source code.
It is free to download and use.
Linux is generally considered less vulnerable and more secure than Windows.
Linux is used in embedded systems, like household appliances, automotive entertainment systems, and network appliances (routers, switches, etc.).

Linux is known for its quick and smooth performance.
It often runs faster than Windows, potentially due to the way it handles tasks in the background.
Linux updates are readily available and can be updated quickly.

Linux is a popular choice for hackers due to its flexibility, open-source platform, portability, command-line interface, and compatibility with hacking tools.
For Linux desktop users, firewalls and antivirus software are typically unnecessary.
Linux is often used for servers due to its high stability and security.
Linux operating systems are generally considered safe for online banking due to the lack of viruses, and ransomware.
The possibility of being hacked is often lower if modern distributions are employed.

A Linux distribution is a version of the Linux OS packaged with additional components like installation programs, tools, and additional software to be customized.
Debian is a Linux-based OS for a range of devices (laptops, desktops, servers), and it provides default configurations, security updates throughout a package's lifecycle, and has extensive hardware support.
Debian is often viewed as a stable environment.
Ubuntu is another distribution, based on Debian and primarily made up of free and open-source software, and it comes in three versions: Desktop, Server, and Core.
Ubuntu is considered beginner-friendly, robust, secure, fast for programming tasks, desktop-focused, and user-friendly.
Kali Linux is a Debian-based distribution primarily focused on tasks related to information security, including penetration testing, security research, computer forensics, and reverse engineering.
Kali Linux is a free operating system with tools for penetration testing and security analytics. The code is available on Git for customization. It supports multiple languages for user operation.
Fedora is mainly for enterprise-level users, alongside Red Hat Enterprise Linux, and provides a user-friendly experience. Fedora is used for Web Servers, Database Servers, Proxies, and Virtual Machines (VMs).