A Definitive Guide to Linux Operating System.
                     A DEFINITIVE 
GUIDE TO LINUX 
OPERATING 
SYSTEM
What Is Linux?
Linux is a Unix-based operating system 
developed by Linus Torvalds and 
thousands of other contributors, and this 
led to several distributions or what we 
call Linux Distros.
Source: levelup.gitconnected.com 2
Why Linux?
In the modern age, we all are more 
familiar with the Windows operating 
system, but that’s not the case when you 
get into the IT sector. 
In fact, some companies totally depend 
on Linux as it is more reliable, 
lightweight, secure, fast, and 
opensource.
Source: levelup.gitconnected.com 3
Linux Distribution
The Linux kernel is like an engine. A 
distribution is an actual vehicle that 
houses the engine.
• Linux Mint: Requires low computer 
expertise, easy to install, easy to use and 
has a familiar-looking desktop for Windows 
users.
• Debian: For those seeking a truly free Linux 
distribution with no proprietary drivers, 
firmware or software, then Debian is for 
you.
Source: levelup.gitconnected.com 4
How to Run Linux From a DVD 
or USB
A live Linux DVD or USB lets you run 
Linux without installing it to your hard 
drive. This basically lets you test drive 
Linux before committing to it and is also 
good for the occasional user.
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How to Install Linux?
Each Linux distribution relies upon a 
different installer, which is a program 
that guides you through configuring 
Linux. 
In most cases, you're free to install Linux 
as the new operating system on a 
computer or as a separate OS that 
doesn't overwrite Windows.
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What Is a Desktop 
Environment?
A display manager logs you in while a 
window manager governs windows, 
panel, menus, dash interfaces and core 
applications. 
Many of these items are bundled 
together to make a desktop environment.
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Are There Any Decent 
Office Suites for 
Linux?
For personal use and for small- to medium-
sized businesses, LibreOffice presents a 
strong alternative to Microsoft Office, for free.
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How to Install 
Software Using Linux?
Linux does not install software the same way 
that Windows does. A package manager 
accesses repositories that archive various 
software applications that work on a given 
distribution. 
The package management tool provides a 
mechanism to search for software, install 
software, keep the software up to date, and 
remove the software.
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The Linux Command 
Line
Given its long heritage and the diversity of 
approach of modern desktop environments, a 
lot of Linux still works from a shell session. 
In the macOS world, these sessions are called 
the terminal; in Windows, the Command 
Prompt.
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Is Linux faster than other 
operating systems? 
It can be, but it isn't always. Linux is a 
lightweight operating system, so with less 
overheard, it can be more efficient than an 
OS like Windows, which comes with 
mountains of features and services that run 
in the background.
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