Why Linux?
While there are numerous reasons to learn Linux, my personal motivation was to explore cybersecurity. I started with the basic command line and gradually expanded my knowledge. Here are some facts that highlight the importance of learning Linux.
It's free
It's robust
Runs on millions of servers
| ROLES | WHY DO THEY USE LINUX |
| Developer | { Command line, open source tools } |
| System Administrators | { Server management, networking } |
| Researchers | { Open Source software/tools } |
Linux and Distro
Technically Linux is a kernel used in distribution. The kernel is very essential for an operating system to function. People usually call Linux an operating system, it's fine to say it so unless you ain't talking technical.
You might have seen Linux mentioned as one of the platforms when you download software. The vs code has "Linux x64" mentioned as the Operating system option to download along with { Windows, Macos }. It's understandable in this situation, although technically it sounds weird.
Choosing a right Linux distribution
It might be overwhelming for beginners to choose their first Linux distribution. You have to start somewhere to kick off your Linux journey. It doesn't matter initially as long as you focus on learning Linux concepts.
Take a look at the Linux distro map : Distrowatch
Burning Linux onto hardware
This is the part where you start hands-on with the Linux box. How to install a Linux distro of your choice to a particular hardware? how to even choose the right hardware for your Linux box. Time to get your hands dirty 💩
Choosing hardware
The Linux kernel is capable of running on multiple "Instruction set architectures" like x86, mips, arm, riscv. Refer to this Link to know about the supported ISA ( Instruction set architectures ) by the Linux kernel. Theories aside let's talk about the hardware available for common ISA.
| Hardware | Example | Instruction set architecture |
| Personal computers | Macbook, windows computers | x86, arm |
| Single board computers | Raspberry pi | arm |
Ways to run your Linux distribution
Now that you have your choice of hardware with you, next you need to install/burn the Linux distribution on it. There are a couple of ways to install the distro. I'll go with beginner-friendly installation from the top to all the way till the end.
Google Cloud console
Live boot
Using hypervisors
cloud vms
WSL2
Wipe up and install fresh
Dual boot
Refer to my other blog on Linux to learn deep about each installation method 👇
Why you shouldn't dual boot
Check this amazing content by "HackerSploit". Shoutout to him✨
How to find good Linux resources
I remember endless research for resources to learn Linux. Research is the key to resources on any topic but what really helped me to reach some of the juicy content on Linux is by finding people who have already done some good work around the Linux ecosystem. If they make content in form of videos, blogs, or whatever, do follow them only if they have proof of their work. Further, connect with them and learn along 🙂
My favorite resources for Linux till now are :
Linux Journey
Over The Wire
Personal tip
I you are one of those who are struggling to maintain consistency but still wanna learn it, then you should definitely consider making Linux distro your primary Operating System and use it as your daily driver.
