Okay, you’ve decided to take the plunge and give Linux a chance, now what?

What do you want to do?
Using a computer is akin to finding the right tool in your tool box. If you want to drive a nail you pick up a hammer, if you want to turn a bolt pick up a wrench. To make a computer useful you have to decide what you want to do. Some of the most common things that people use computers for are below, all can be accomplished with Linux!

Linux Distribution History

First, a little history and the answer to the question ‘What the heck is a Linux Distribution?’. When the Linux operating system was young, it was just the Linux kernel. Programmers had fun but the Linux kernel doesn’t interact with people. The kernel is the supervisor managing resources and getting bits and bytes to where they need to go. For Linux to do useful things we have to add programs. It’s the programs that talk to people, do what you ask and finally make you say “Gee, that’s cool”. The kernel, plus all the programs make up the Linux Distribution or distro in geek speak.

The Linux operating system has been around for a quarter century now, should you use it for your desktop computer?

The definitive answer to that question is maybe. It is likely you already use Linux for other things without knowing. Many multi-media boxes, smart TV’s and network routers all use Linux under the hood.

Close cousins of desktop Linux are running your Android phone and possibly that Chromebook that your kids use in school.