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Here is a little background on why we chose Linux for our Web
servers. However, we first need to address the most common question we hear
regarding Linux: What is the correct pronunciation of "Linux"? Let's turn to
Linus Torvalds, the man that created it. Click his picture to hear what he has
to say:
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What is LINUX?
Linux is a complete operating
system that is similar but not identical to UNIX. It runs on a wide variety of
hardware, ranging from 386's/486's/Pentiums/Pentium II's, etc., to more exotic
hardware such as Digital Alpha computers, PowerPCs, and Silicon Graphics
workstations. Probably the most unique characteristic of Linux is that it is
freely distributable. Freely distributable means that the source code for the
kernel and most software cannot be withheld. It does not mean that companies
cannot charge for it.
Why use LINUX?
Most people reading this
will probably be using Windows 9x/ME/NT/2000/XP. If you are such a reader and
just use your computer for basic word processing and spreadsheets, you should
probably stick with Windows. For all its faults Windows is easy to use, fairly
quick to learn and has some great software. For everyone else, please read
on.
Here are 10 reasons why we chose Linux, and why Linux could be the
best operating system for you:
- A Linux Distribution has thousands of dollars worth of
software for no cost (or a relatively low cost if purchased on CD)
- Linux is a complete operating system that is:
- stable - the crash of an application is much less
likely to bring down the operating system under Linux
- reliable - Linux servers are often up for hundreds of
days compared with the regular reboots required with a Windows system
- flexible - extremely powerful and scalable
- Comes with a complete development environment, including
C, C++, Fortran compilers, toolkits such as Qt and scripting languages such as
Perl, Awk and sed. A C compiler for Windows alone would set you back hundreds
of dollars.
- Excellent networking facilities: allowing you to share
CPUs, share modems etc.; all of which are not included or available with
Windows 95.
- The ideal environment to run servers such as a Web server
(e.g. Apache), or an FTP server.
- A wide variety of commercial software is available if
your needs aren't satisfied by the free software.
- An operating system that is easily upgradeable. After any
length of time a typical installation of Windows and software gets into a
complete mess. Often the only way to clear out all the debris is to reformat
the hard disk and start again. Linux, however, is much better for maintaining
the system.
- Supports multiple processors as standard.
- True multi-tasking; the ability to run more than one
program at the same time.
- An excellent window system called X; the equivalent of
Windows but much more flexible.
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