What is Linux?

Linux is a free and open source operating system similar to Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, and Chrome OS. The Linux operating system originated in the 1990s through the GNU Project and has now grown to a massive global user base. The personal computer or smartphone you’re likely reading this from (if you have an Android) runs on the Linux kernel. From embedded systems like smartphones, to cars, thermostats, streaming devices, home appliances, and much more – Linux distributions are practically everywhere. The Linux system actually maintains most of the Internet itself, including all of the world’s dedicated servers, stock exchanges and supercomputers.

Linux is known for its reliability and security in both Linux desktop and Linux server environments, which is why it is the preferred platform for system administrators to run applications and manage software packages.

The Linux operating system architecture is comprised of several components:

• Bootloader: The software that manages the boot process of your computer and file system.
• Kernel: The lowest level of the OS, or the core of the system and manages the CPU, memory, and hardware devices. The Linux kernel is maintained by the Linux Foundation.
• Init system: Init is a daemon process that continues running until the system is shut down. It is the direct or indirect ancestor of all other processes and automatically adopts all orphaned processes. Init is started by the kernel during the booting process.
• Daemons: These are background services in the Linux environment (such as printing) that either start up during boot or after you log into the desktop.
• Graphical server: The system that displays the graphics on your monitor (it is commonly referred to as the X server or just X).
• Desktop environment: This is the interactive component of the OS. Popular Linux distributions like Ubuntu Linux, Fedora Linux, Linux Mint, Red Hat Enterprise Linux, SUSE Linux, and Arch Linux each offer their own desktop environments made up of GUI elements such as icons, toolbars, wallpapers, etc. They include built-in applications such as web browsers and file managers.
• Applications: Popular distributions like Ubuntu Server have software centers that allow Linux users to quickly search among thousands of free software applications and install them from one centralized location.

Popular Linux Distributions

While there are hundreds of Linux distributions available, some have gained particular prominence for their specific use cases and user-friendly features:

Ubuntu Linux 

Ubuntu Linux is one of the most popular Linux distributions for personal computers and Ubuntu Server dominates in cloud computing. Based on Debian architecture, Ubuntu provides an excellent starting point for new Linux users. Its user-friendly interface, extensive software packages, and large community support make it ideal for both desktop and server environments. The Ubuntu Software Center makes installing applications as simple as using a smartphone app store.

Kali Linux 

Kali Linux has become the de facto standard for cybersecurity professionals and ethical hackers. This specialized distribution comes pre-installed with hundreds of security and penetration testing tools. While not recommended for everyday use or Linux beginners, Kali Linux is essential for security specialists and those pursuing Linux security certifications.

Puppy Linux 

Puppy Linux represents an innovative approach to Linux distribution design. This incredibly lightweight operating system can run entirely in RAM, making it exceptionally fast and perfect for reviving older hardware. Despite its small size (typically under 300MB), Puppy Linux includes a complete graphical user interface and essential applications for daily use. It’s particularly useful for:

• Recovering data from damaged systems
• Creating a portable workstation
• Running a full operating system on low-resource computers
• Learning Linux commands in a simplified environment

MX Linux 

MX Linux has gained significant popularity as a midweight distribution that combines efficiency with user-friendliness. Built on Debian stable with reliable and simple configuration tools, it provides:

• Excellent hardware compatibility
• A balance between performance and features
• Straightforward system administration tools
• A familiar desktop environment for Windows users transitioning to Linux

Each of these distributions serves different purposes in the Linux ecosystem, from everyday computing to specialized tasks. The choice of distribution often depends on factors such as:

• Technical expertise level
• Hardware specifications
• Intended use (personal, server, security, etc.)
• Required software packages
• Desired level of system control

For beginners in the Linux environment, starting with Ubuntu Linux or MX Linux provides a gentle learning curve while still offering access to powerful features of the Linux operating system. As users become more comfortable with Linux commands and the Linux shell, they can explore more specialized distributions like Kali Linux for security work or Puppy Linux for system recovery and maintenance.

Why learn Linux?

If proprietary operating systems already come pre-installed on computers, why bother learning a different operating system? Aside from being the most secure from malware and viruses and free of issues common to Windows Server systems like crashes and slowdowns, the Linux operating system is fully customizable, reliable, and completely open source.

Linux security and systems administration requires working knowledge of the Linux shell and command line interface, which can help you gain employment in many software development fields. Linux knowledge provides mastery over Linux commands and a better understanding of how computers work.

What Types of Jobs Can I Get With Linux?

Zippia reports that the average salary for Linux administrators is $79,996. Most Linux administrators have Bachelor’s degrees, which give them the experience they need to gain valuable on-the-job training for real-world applications. While a small percentage have acquired a Master’s degree in this field, the data shows it’s not necessary for earning a rewarding salary for this type of work. 

Jobs that require Linux knowledge include:

• System administration 
• Network engineer
• Web developer 
• Software engineer
• Linux engineer
• Senior java developer
• Systems engineer
• DevOps engineer
• Mobile app developer
• Full stack developer
• Software architect 

As technology continues to develop, the need for Linux-knowledgeable candidates will only grow. Trends in e-commerce have forced many brands to acquire an online presence if they didn’t already have one, which in turn increases the need for well-qualified candidates who can oversee these websites on both the front and back end. 

Some of the most common areas of study for Linux-based careers include hardware and system configuration, automation and scripting, Linux troubleshooting and diagnostics, system operation and maintenance, as well as security. Programming languages on Linux include MySWL, HTML/CSS, JavaScript, and more. 

Linux knowledge can also lead to careers in many other industries besides software development.

In addition, education in Linux can help supplement certification in related fields to provide a more well-rounded resume and increase the number of opportunities available to such a qualified candidate. 

How Do I Learn Linux?

If you’ve used technology in the past 20 years, you shouldn’t have too many problems learning about the basics of Linux. Building a foundation in Linux only takes a few days, but the more advanced topics can take up to a lifetime to master. 

Linux provides a wide range of programming opportunities. It can be easiest for macOS users to learn, as it shares similarities with UNIX, which underpins macOS. Linux will allow you to create open source projects and much more, with the right training. 

Many prospective students might want to learn Linux online and/or for free. It’s true that there are many resources available on Linux that you can draw upon to build your knowledge of this operating system. Some may even offer their own certifications, which test your knowledge in order to demonstrate your proficiency for prospective employers. At the same time, the foundation you build with Linux is just as important as the building blocks of the operating system itself.

Students interested in Linux can gain hands-on, real-world experience from CIAT programs. We offer a variety of programs and certifications in order to prepare you for a job using Linux to impact the larger IT industry. As a student, you’ll learn how to navigate the file system of Linux, as well as become versed in bash/shell scripting. By the end of your learning journey,  you will be prepared to dive right into a rewarding career. 

The California Institute of Art & Technology knows that success in Linux comes with a solid foundation of IT knowledge to build upon. Linux skills are in high demand across a number of industries and applications, so the job market welcomes graduates with open arms.

How to Land a Position in Linux

The Linux Foundation 2021 report states Linux is the second most sought-after skill by open source hiring managers. At the same time, competition for these jobs can be fierce, especially with such lucrative opportunities at stake. 

While you may be able to teach yourself about Linux with the free resources and tutorials available on the web, a dedicated and recognized education proves to be much more valuable on a resume than anything else. Plus, certifications in Linux such as the CompTIA Linux+ Certification help to set you apart from your competition. This particular certification is highly regarded in the industry and gives students the opportunity to demonstrate knowledge of network tools, localization, scripting, server roles, and network/storage configuration. The Associate of Applied Science in Software Development is the perfect program for beginners who want to establish a foundation in Linux and use it to gain experience for many different types of careers. There are no exam fees and unlimited exam attempts associated with earning this certification, which can help you to become a Linux Administrator, an IT Systems Administrator, or even a Technical Support Specialist. 

An education in Linux can provide you the basis for a challenging yet rewarding career in the ever-developing IT industry. With certifications and degree programs structured to support your learning and prepare you for job placement, CIAT helps students on a daily basis to gain experience and develop their Linux skills in a welcoming environment