The Wonderful World of Linux

Tux
           The Linux mascot 'Tux'


Introduction to Linux

Linux is the heart of an alternate operating system for PCs and other platforms including Macs. It similar to Unix but designed for small computers.

Linux was combined with software developed by GNU ('guh-noo') to make a free system.

The GNU/Linux system is special because it has been developed using 'open source software' or 'free software' systems, where all software is available for anyone to copy and modify.

The software is developed by a global community of software developers who are constantly improving Linux and its associated software.

A GNU/Linux system, just like a Mac or Microsoft system, uses a desktop and menus for the user to interface with the computer. The desktops are easy to use and well laid out.

Most DVDs, CDs, scanners, printers, etc., are supported by Linux systems.

Though it might be hard to believe, GNU/Linux software is available for free and can be copied and distributed at will!

Read on and learn about the philosophy of Free Software.

Linux and Futureenergy.org

Futureenergy.org runs its campaigns on computers running the Linux operating system. We do so for a number of reasons:
  • Linux is an easy to use, stable operating system.
  • Linux has higher degrees of true security built into the system than other systems.
  • Linux systems are as yet unaffected by the computer viruses that regularly infect the Internet.
  • Futureenergy.org opposes the corporate dominance and control over the PC software markets exerted by Microsoft.
  • We save thousands of dollars in software costs as Linux is free.
The Linux software we use is called Redhat and it uses a GNOME desktop.

The software has everything we need, including an excellent office suite OpenOffice, a wonderful graphic manipulation program The Gimp, email and Internet browsing.

OpenOffice has a word processor, spreadsheet, data presentation program and even a project management tool, to name some of the applications. It can be installed on Macs or Windows-based PCs as well is Linux PCs.

Types of Linux

I have used two types of Linux, Debian and Redhat. Both are superb systems.

Why are there different types of Linux?

Because Linux is developed using an 'open source model,' people or groups are able to develop their own style of Linux and distribute it.

Some companies package Linux applications together and distribute them. They make money buy offering support for the package. On the other hand, Debian is developed by a not for profit group.

Groups Involved with Linux

A number of groups exist to encourage people to use Linux.

Linux Users Victoria

Linux Users Victoria run install fests where you bring along your PC and get Linux installed on it for free. Some people call this getting your PC ' cured '.

Computerbank

Computerbank collects donations of computer equipment from companies, organisations and private individuals to refurbish into working systems. When the hardware of these systems has been tested and is operating satisfactorily, they are installed with the GNU/Linux operating system (Debian and KDE on the desktop) and a set of useful programs, ready to be distributed to disadvantaged individuals and/or community groups in Victoria.

Cumputer bank has and excellent documentation site where there is heaps of information on using Linux.

Linux Australia

Linux Australia exists to 'assist in bringing the disparate pockets of Linux support into a single forum by encouraging and facilitating communication between these groups.'

They have lots of useful Linux information including a list of Linux groups nationally.

Latest Information

Linux Today is a Linux web mag full of information.

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Last Updated: 10/7/04 by @1