In a world where ease of usage and customization dominate the desires of most tech users, it is imperative to learn Linux.
Linux is open-source and allows you to make it work how you want it to. Considering that almost every industry uses Linux in some way, it is the ideal choice of OS right now.
The fact that even supercomputers and organizations like NASA itself rely on Linux for all their operations, speaks enough volumes to back its usefulness.
But does Linux really offer features that make it worth learning over other OSes?
In this article, I list down nine reasons for why it definitely does.
1. The World Runs On Linux
Previously, I did provide a glimpse of where Linux is used, but a glimpse was all it was. Linux is everywhere, literally.
Whether it be your smartphones or the CCTV camera in your backyard, almost every digital thing you see runs on Linux or is Linux-based. From the most advanced tech to a potato hardware, all of them can run because of Linux.
Its open-source nature, allows users to use it for whatever they want. With the help of the community, it's easier to solve problems one faces. Furthermore, Linux often requires the bare minimum hardware specifications to function.
2. Security
The easiest way to protect your system is not by installing an antivirus, but by hopping on Linux 😉
While our resources against hackers keep improving with time, it is always better to choose an operating system that is more likely to keep your data protected.
When it comes to popular Linux distributions, the source-code is public, and the entire open-source community has eyes on bugs and vulnerabilities.
Of course, that does not mean it is impenetrable. But, it is a superior platform because it receives timely patches and updates, even if a vulnerability has been uncovered. And, with LTS distributions like Ubuntu, you get updates for as long as 12 years (which is impossible with macOS or Windows).
There are also privacy-focused Linux distributions, which go a step beyond and make things crazier. They offer a greater learning curve, but if your priority lies in securing your data, you can make the choice.
Abhishek Prakash
3. Cost of Maintenance and Installation
Why pay for an OS when you can get a more reliable one for free? All you need to do is spend some time learning it and save a lot of money in terms of hardware (macOS hardware is expensive), Windows license, antivirus subscriptions, and others.
You also get longer software updates, for the most part, without paying a dime.
Moreover, it is easier to find free and open-source software on Linux, as the software center promotes such utilities more than the proprietary or paid ones. So, you do not need to worry about paying for software (unless you have a commercial requirement) or you depend on a special tool that charges a fee.
Because of this free-of-cost experience, Linux is a must-learn for students and other working professionals using many systems or running outdated hardware.
4. Flexibility For Curious Minds
Installing Linux provides you an endless option of distributions, unlike the monotonic nature of other popular operating systems.
Distributions like Ubuntu, Peppermint, and Fedora, each offer a new unique experience. This keeps you fresh and makes sure you always have something to learn in the world of Linux.
If you are someone who is in favor of trying something new, learning Linux is the best thing you can do.
Different desktop environments, different file managers, and various package managers. Anything you are keen to explore, you have endless choices.
5. Reviving Old Computers
Who does not want the power of resurrection? While it might not apply to life, computers can be revived and the way to do it is by using Linux.
With most users running Windows, there comes a time when the requirements to run Windows's latest version exceed that of your system.
But, you don't need to throw that computer yet!
Because of Linux's minimal hardware requirements and very efficient desktop environments like Lubuntu, it's easy to run them on old computers.
So, just replacing your operating system with Linux can very well just revive your old computer and save you a hefty amount of money.
6. No Privacy Invasion
With your data being collected and being used for various purposes like targeted advertisements and surveys, one often questions their privacy.
Microsoft's Windows is infamous for its choices when it comes to user privacy.
With Linux, it's different. While Ubuntu does collect some usage data (if you enable), you can always opt out of that. Not just Ubuntu, you will not find any hidden data collection mechanisms in any Linux distributions.
This ensures you have control of your data and that there is complete transparency with where your data is being distributed.
7. Career Opportunities
While learning Linux is beneficial for personal use-cases, it also helps professionally.
With more need for jobs, now more than ever, it is very important to keep upskilling yourself and keep yourself up to date.
Whether it's system administration, cybersecurity, server hosting, or software development, learning Linux can help you in every aspect of your career. e
These careers don't just cater to your interests but also are usually well-paid and in demand across industries. So, the skills that come with Linux will make sure you stay in the market for a long time.
8. The Community
While I have discussed the open source nature of Linux several times in this article, it is for good reason. Linux's biggest selling point is its community support.
With millions of users that work towards making the OS better, it is without a doubt why Linux is as reliable as it is. Whether we talk about its user base, or developer ecosystem, most Linux distributions have a huge community behind it. This can help you learn easily, ask for help, and present a place for you to interact with like-minded people.
The community makes Linux unique.
9. Choice for Embedded Devices and DIY Projects
For all kinds DIY projects while utilizing SBCs like Raspberry Pi (and other Raspberry Pi alternatives), the suitable choice for the operating system is Linux.
So, if you want to tinker around building your own IoT projects, you will rely on Linux to power your solutions. So, if you learn Linux, you can customize the software side of your innovation and take better control over what you want to build.
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Wrapping Up
The reasons I listed above are only the tip of the iceberg.
Some may have said that learning Linux is only for geeks (or techies), but that's not true, and you can benefit a lot by getting familiar with it.
💬 Why do you think someone should learn Linux? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Author Info
Swayam Sai Das is a student exploring the realms of Linux as an Intern Writer at It's FOSS. He is dedicated, when trying to push ranks in FPS games and enjoys reading literature classics in an attempt of putting on an academic facade.
