Operating systems are not, let’s face it, a very sexy concept. Small wonder that this basic foundation garment of any PC or laptop got taken over from the start by long-sighted enterprises that went on swiftly to become virtual monopolies. The two giants to which I refer are Microsoft and Apple. These serve most users well – especially users who wouldn’t consider meddling with how their computers work, but there does exist among the techie fraternity – whom some like to call geeks – a beating heart of loyalty for Linux, a free operating system using open source code.
Commentators have flooded the internet over the years with detailed comparisons of the merits and demerits of different OS’s and Linux-lovers have tended to emerge triumphant, citing, apart from the cost-free nature of the Linux formula, the perceived reliability and greater security that Linux offers. In many cases, the lightness of the Linux operating system speeds up the computer’s performance, possibly prolonging the hardware’s life, too. Frustration with slow booting time is a strong incentive to replace one’s current operating system. Even then, many long for an add-on that will command their computer to boot instantly. Maybe herein lies the next big entrepreneurial boom opportunity!
The distinct hindrance to Linux world domination is the fact that it takes a measure of IT wit and wisdom to install and maintain. Anyone wanting to get the best out of the open source OS is also going to need a little know-how when it comes to adapting the system to suit their specific needs.
That said, tips and tricks are generously and helpfully put up by enthusiasts and can be found via a quick internet search, so the newly initiated Linux user, trembling with a mixture of trepidation and pride at having joined the cool brigade, should soon master the system.