Linux is a free Unix-like operating system, originally developed by programmers who who simply love the challenge of solving problems and producing quality software... even if that means giving the resulting product away. Not coincidentally, there's also a wealth of free software for it. Unlike proprietary operating systems, which are usually controlled in every detail by a single company, Linux has a standard consistent core called the "kernel" around which many varieties known as distributions have been produced by various companies and organisations. Some are aimed at geeks, some focus on the needs of business users, and some are designed with typical home users in mind. It has become a popular option for the makers of inexpensive netbooks and laptops to preinstall. You can test-drive Linux with versions such as Knoppix which runs directly from a CD without affecting the OS on your hard drive. Most individuals should start with one of the mainstream distributions, such as Ubuntu, Mandriva, or Linspire. Businesses might prefer RedHat/Fedora, Novell/SUSE, or CentOS. Geeks should check out Debian, Slackware, and Gentoo.

Linux is a first-rate choice for servers; the main server of this site is a Linux system.