What is Linux ?
Linux, also known as GNU/Linux, is a free, UNIX-like operating system runs on a variety of platforms including x86, PowerPC, DEC Alpha, Sun Sparc, and many others.
Linux aims for POSIX compliancy to maintain maximum compatibility with other UNIX-like systems. With millions of users worldwide, Linux is probably the most popular UNIX-like OS in the world.
Linux is the brainchild of hacker extraordinaire Linus Torvalds. It began as a project while Linus was a 21-year-old student at the University of Helsinki. He had wanted to implement an improved (free) Minix for his x86 PC.
Today, with 10 million users worldwide, Linux is growing exponentially as programmers, enthusiasts, and end-users exchange thoughts, implement ideas, contribute code, and cooperate in the phenomenon known as Open Source to produce the operating system known as Linux.