hmu.ai
Back to Developer Dictionary
Developer Dictionary

Linux

Definition

An open-source Unix-like operating system kernel.

Deep Dive

Linux is an open-source, Unix-like operating system kernel, originally created by Linus Torvalds in 1991. While "Linux" technically refers only to the kernel, it is commonly used to describe entire operating systems built around this kernel, known as Linux distributions (e.g., Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian). These distributions bundle the Linux kernel with GNU system utilities, libraries, and other application software to form a complete and functional operating system.

Examples & Use Cases

  • 1Running a web server like Apache or Nginx on a Linux-based operating system
  • 2The Android operating system, which is based on the Linux kernel
  • 3Using Linux on a Raspberry Pi for hobby projects or embedded applications.

Related Terms

UnixOpen SourceGNU

Part of the hmu.ai extensive business and technology library.

Start Building