Linux is suddenly everywhere – what’s driving its appeal?
From our research at Yellow Tail Tech, we learned that for years, Linux has been the most popular end-user operating system worldwide. Or, to be more precise, it’s Android. According to Statcounter’s most recent numbers, Android had 43.74% of the market in February 2024, followed by Windows with 27.39%.
While Windows is the king of the hill with 72.13% and macOS comes in a distant second at 15.46%, it’s clear that Linux is making progress. Below, we’ll go over the five reasons why it’s growing.
Why Linux is Bigger Than You Think
Linux is bigger than we think it is. And the biggest companies across the world know it. It powers most machines that we use daily such as mobile phones, ATM machines, cash registers, and gas pumps. Additionally, about 80% of websites on the internet are based on Linux. To name the big ones, major cloud-based providers such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud are all supported by Linux.
So what is it about Linux that even these tech giants swear by it?
First, let’s briefly understand what Linux is. It is an open-source, all-purpose operating system that’s widely used by almost anyone who knows how to, from students, programming enthusiasts, and as mentioned, to small and big enterprises. In recent years, Linux surpassed its limitation to being just an OS and is now used as a platform to run desktops, servers, and systems.
Why Developers and Businesses are Embracing the Flexibility of Linux
Free and Open Source
As an open-source OS, Linux’s source code is accessible to everyone. You don’t have to pay for any license to use its source code, anyone can contribute, modify, distribute, and enhance it. Programmers can easily customize Linux according to their companies’ or clients’ needs.
With Linux being highly customizable, a lot of features can be easily added and deleted, and a lot of tasks can be automated. There are also different distributions of it called distros that are available in the market to match any preferences/conditions: Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, Linux Mint, Arch Linux, etc.
Highly Secure
Linux systems do not require any antivirus programs. It’s less vulnerable than other operating systems as every program (whether an application or a virus) cannot make any changes in the system settings without the approval of the administrator. Entering the password will be needed, otherwise the virus won’t execute.
Highly Stable and Low Maintenance
Linux systems rarely slow down or freeze, thus not needing to be rebooted often, even when updating or patching. For other OS such as Windows, the speed deteriorates over time usage so you’ll need to reinstall the OS and other software. This is also why most web servers are Linux-based. To top all these, Linux can run on any hardware, and its requirements are much lighter compared to other OS (about 128MB of RAM and disk space, in general).
When it comes to systems, Linux is capable of handling a large number of users simultaneously over different networks. It is designed to run multiple tasks at the same time without affecting the system speed.
Largest Community Support
Since it’s the most widely-used open-source OS, If users encounter any issues with Linux, chances are other programmers have already posted the solution on online forums. There are many users online who are dedicated to improving Linux for everyone’s benefit. Any question is usually addressed by members within hours. But for businesses with critical applications and services that need immediate and 24/7 support, paid services are also offered by providers like Red Hat and Novell.
Linux is being hailed as the future of business technology. As more and more computer functions transition to the Cloud, and with the Cloud relying heavily on Linux, we can imagine why. We may think that Linux is extremely complex, but it’s now actually becoming more user-friendly as a result of continuous modifications in its graphical user interface (GUI).
So why is Linux so popular?
The flexibility of Linux has become a game-changer for developers and businesses alike, offering unparalleled customization and efficiency. Here are the key reasons why this open-source operating system is gaining traction in the professional world:
Customization and Control
One of the primary reasons why Linux is so popular is the unparalleled level of customization and control it offers. What sparks joy in developers is an operating system that bends to your will, a perfect blend of function and flexibility. Open-source Linux allows you to modify the source code, install only the necessary components, and create a streamlined environment that enhances productivity and efficiency. This adaptable nature completely flips the script, especially when tackling multifaceted projects or Fine-tuning for speed.
Cost-Effectiveness
For businesses, its cost-effectiveness is a major draw. Unlike proprietary operating systems, it is free to use. Savings increase when you can minimize software licensing costs—a significant boon for large organizations. You’re treating yourself to a virtually endless supply of free software and tools by going with Linux. The bonus? Your operational costs take a welcome hit. The reason it has become the corporate favorite is crystal clear: it’s a thrift-store superstar.
Why is Linux so Popular
Linux is experiencing a surge in popularity due to its open-source nature, robust security, and versatility across various platforms. Let’s explore the main factors driving this trend.
Microsoft Isn’t That Interested in Windows.
If you think Microsoft is all about the desktop and Windows, think again. Microsoft’s profits these days come from its Azure cloud and Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Microsoft 365 in particular. Microsoft doesn’t want you to buy Windows; the Redmond powerhouse wants you to subscribe to Windows 365 Cloud PC. And, by the way, you can run Windows 365 Cloud PC on Macs, Chromebooks, Android tablets, iPads, and, oh yes, Linux desktops.
Linux Gaming, Thanks to Steam, is Also Growing.
Gaming has never been a strong suit for Linux, but its gamers are also a slowly growing group. It is probable that Steam, the most popular gaming platform, also has the lion’s share of the gaming distribution market.
Users Are Finally Figuring Out That Some Linux Distros Are Easy to Use.
Even now, you’ll find people who insist that Linux is challenging to master. True, it will challenge you if you want to be a power user. But if all you want to do is work and play, many Linux distributions are suitable for beginners. For example, Linux Mint is simple to use and an excellent end-user operating system for everyone and anyone.
Finding and Installing Linux Desktop Software is Easier Than Ever
While some Linux purists dislike containerized application installation programs such as Flatpak, Snap, and AppImage, developers love them. The critical inquiry comes to mind: why? They make it simple to write applications for Linux that don’t need to be tuned just right for all the numerous distributions. Users score big time with a broader range of programs to pick from, and they can breathe easy, leaving the techy install details to the experts.
The Linux Desktop is Growing in Popularity in India.
This country is now the world’s fifth-largest economy, and it is still growing. Do you know what else is growing in India? Here’s the magic of operating systems that live outside the mainstream—purely for eager souls who hunger for customization and a break from the norm. In India, Windows is still the number one operating system with 70.37%, but number two is Linux, with 15.23%. MacOS is way back in fourth place with 3.11%.
Hidden Benefits of Linux Adoption
Community Support and Collaboration
One of the hidden benefits of Linux adoption is the strong sense of community and collaboration that comes with it. Open the door to Linux, and you step into a whirlwind of ideas, friendships, and energized problem-solvers. Everyone’s pushing the envelope, everyone’s seeking help, and everyone’s devoted to remolding this remarkable OS. Shared efforts yield richer results, especially compared to proprietary systems that often neglect crucial support areas – by working together, you can cover more ground.
Authentic Breakthroughs
Linux’s free rein leaves room for bright minds to experiment and invent. Feel the rush of creative freedom as you jumpstart your digital adventure, unhindered by rules or red tape, with the liberty to shape your perfect blend of distributions, desktop environments, and software packages. With exploration and progress always at the top of our minds, our setting naturally breeds inspired thinking and a willingness to adapt. When speed matters, businesses mustn’t hold back – churning out fresh solutions, tossing them into the mix, and constantly reassessing to ensure they’re always one step ahead.
Improved DevOps and Automation
Linux is becoming popular in DevOps due to its compatibility with a wide range of automation tools and frameworks. Whether you use Docker for containerization, Kubernetes for orchestration, or Ansible for configuration management, it provides a seamless environment for integrating these tools. Streamlined workflows and turbocharged deployment mean you can iterate faster, adapt quicker, and squeeze in a few extra cups of coffee.
Scalability
Scalability is another hidden benefit. Whether you are running a small startup or a large enterprise, Linux can scale to meet your needs. Add, subtract, or modify components as your business grows – this modular system makes it easy to adapt to changing demands. Business moves at lightning speed these days, and being able to pivot quickly is crucial – those who can’t keep up risk getting left in the dust. That’s why our team at Yellow Tail Tech desires to teach Lnx for Jobs programs to as many students as possible so that you can be an irreplaceable authority in the tech world.
Environmentally Friendly
As environmental degradation looms large, it delivers valued solutions: powerful technology that also happens to be gentler on the planet. With it, you can make the most of your current hardware, curtailing the frequency of pricey upgrades and sidestepping the avalanche of discarded devices that follow in their wake. Corporate bottom lines get a boost when they adopt environmentally conscious practices, which also nets them positive PR for being responsible community members.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is Linux mostly used for?
Linux’s value shines as a server OS, humbly serving up websites, databases, files, and emails with dependability and speed, often without users even realizing it. Whether you’re building a cloud-based service or a web application, this design is up to the task. It is built from the ground up to support heavy workloads and simultaneous requests.
What is the Most Important Part of Linux?
The kernel is the most critical component of the Linux OS, acting as the interface between a computer’s hardware and its resources. The kernel’s essential tasks include keeping track of memory locations and the amount of memory used to store each item and ensuring efficient allocation and access.
Why Linux is a Better Operating System
It is considered a better operating system for several reasons:
- Open Source: Its source code is freely available for anyone to modify and redistribute, fostering a collaborative development environment.
- Security: The open-source model seriously boosts security, as cumulative expertise and continuous scrutiny create a more fortified system than many proprietary counterparts.
- Stability and Reliability: Linux systems are known for their robustness and ability to run smoothly for long periods without crashes or reboots, making them highly reliable for both personal and professional use.
What is the Main Function in Linux?
In the Linux environment, the main function is where the magic happens, directing the flow of your program and giving it purpose. When a program starts, the system calls the main() function, marking the program’s entry point. By default, the main has the storage class extern. Each program must have exactly one main() function, and no other function can be named main(). As the program’s sparkplug, this function sets everything in motion, guiding the entire process from beginning to end.
Why Now is the Time to Make the Switch
With the Linux system at the forefront of technological advancements, the question on everyone’s mind is: what’s next? Growth and adoption rates have been rising steadily, and they are just getting started.
Linux has caught on, but why is there such a sudden interest? Its versatility, cost benefits, and enhanced security standards converge with impressive results from communal resources, game-changing innovation, improved workflows, limitless growth, and an unexpected yet remarkable eco-friendly dividend.
Perhaps you’re trying to reinvent your OS or simply escape exploding IT bills—in either case, Linux is the perfect solution. Linux is experiencing a surge in popularity, driven by the spreading word about its strengths in the developer and business communities.
Let’s learn and explore more together by booking a 10-minute intro call at Yellow Tail Tech!
