Linux Rules in the World of Supercomputers

June 18, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Tux, as originally drawn by Larry Ewing 

Image via Wikipedia

It’s no secret that Linux has had trouble gaining momentum in the world of desktop computing. A majority of computer users have a difficult time grasping how it works and how it can be used. Those who have managed to use it successfully prefer Linux over Windows because of the ease of use, access to the operating system and the increased processor speed.

However, while Linux isn’t popular amongst the home PC crowd, it has gained superiority in the realm of supercomputers. These computers are used in universities, stock exchanges, computer science and more. Even IBM’s Watson runs on Linux.

A major driving force in the use of Linux for supercomputers is the speed and stability. A supercomputer can perform 8 quadrillion calculations per second, which requires a very stable operating system. Linux provides the necessary stability as well as speed. Stock exchanges prefer Linux for its ability to handle a million trades in the space of a second. This has enabled high-frequency traders to push through their blocks of trades and make their money for the day.

It may seem strange that an open-source operating system is being used in top universities and corporations. However, the open-source nature of Linux is what makes it attractive to these users. Their programmers can tweak and adjust Linux to their exact specifications, and not have to worry about the changes causing a fatal error.

Linux may never have much of a foothold in the home PC market beyond its geek cachet. But it does dominate the world of the supercomputer.

 

Filed Under: Programs Tagged With: , ,

Freedom Discovered: Linux

May 2, 2011 By Leave a Comment
linux on laptop 

Image by kenwood via Flickr

Choice is an uncommon concept within the virtual world. Technology is too often defined by rigid standards, can’t veer from the protocols that have been placed within it. Codes must remain tight; applications must perform as ordered; and users can find themselves without the ability to tailor their platforms to their needs. Systems often instead reflect the desires of their distributors — offering far too many limitations and far too few rewards. It becomes a challenge to create a computer that simply… works.

Linux helps to tame that challenge into a reality, however.

The Linux platform — which was launched in 1991 as a free source operation — allows individuals to forge their own ideas. The utilization of open codes and an ever-evolving kernel ensure that each user has the opportunity to master their own desktops (shaping every element of their computers as they wish). This is a vital part of the Linux philosophy and one shared by no other system.

The freedom of open sources enables each computer to become a testament to its owner’s needs and desires. Applications can be rewritten; programs can be altered (whether subtly or completely); and the platform can become useful instead of merely tolerated. This distinction is rare within the Internet — and it can’t be denied once it’s been experienced.

The advantage of Linux is its flexibility, the way it can be redefined again and again. There is no end to its potential. It is instead reliant purely on individuals and their skills: which makes it without limit or weakness. It can be changed into the perfect tool.

Filed Under: Linux Tagged With: , ,

A Look at the Ubuntu Operating System

March 28, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Linux once was an operating system that only those that were technologically advanced use. In recent, years the Linux based operating system has started to grow. As the Linux based operating system grows so does the amount of software programs and applications that are developed grow too. One of the most popular types of software programs that operate on the Linux based system is that of the Ubuntu operating system.

Ubuntu is an operating system that is developed for computers regardless of it is a Mac or a PC. It is solely based on the Debian/GNU and Linux based distribution channels. For the most part the Ubuntu is free to use for computer users and is a part of the open source software program.

The idea of the Ubuntu operating system was to create a user friendly operating system that almost any computer user could use easily. The goal of the program was to create a system that was updated frequently based off of user feedback and had fixes for any potential errors or problems. Ever since the release of Ubuntu is 2004 the creators of this Linux based operating system have released an update faithfully every six months as promised. The updates contain security fixes and patches, new customer support options and even updates to specific programs based off of customer feedback. While the majority of the updates for Ubuntu are considered short term fixes, every two years the company will completely fix the system from top to bottom and fix any major errors or bugs that are present in the program.

Ubuntu is installed onto computers using a CD program that contains an installation setup menu. One of the unique features of the Ubuntu CD program is that it offers any user the chance to test drive the operating system by installing it onto the computer in a smaller version. This allows users to make sure that they are comfortable with the operating system before downloading it for use on their computer.

Filed Under: Programs Tagged With: , ,

Minimum System Requirements to Run Ubuntu

March 20, 2011 By Leave a Comment

The Ubuntu operating system is a GNU/Linux based operating system that many computer users choose to use over the traditional operating systems. As an open source software program it allows users to customize their operating system to contain what they want, instead of what a company decides is important. However, in order to download Ubuntu you have to have specific system requirements in order to be able to run it. Here is a look at what type of system requirements you will need.

Structures and Architectures of CPU. Ubuntu can currently run on either a 32 bit or a 64 bit architecture system. It can also run on the PlayStation 3, IA-64 and the PowerPC.

GPU. Your computer must also contain a GPU unit that Ubuntu recognizes and supports. This is essential to show computer users any type of desktop visual effects.

Processor. There are two types of requirements for a processor. The processor for a server must have a minimum requirement of 300 MHz. The processor for the desktop must have at least a 1 GHZ in order to support the Ubuntu.

Memory Requirements. The memory requirements for a server to run Ubuntu are at least 128 MB. The memory requirements for a desktop or laptop computer is 512 MB.

Hard Drive Space. There must be a minimum amount of free hard drive space in order to support the Ubuntu. For servers there must be a minimum of 1 GB and for laptops or desktops there is a minimum of 5 GB.

Monitor Resolution. All monitors must have a minimum requirement in order to show the various graphics and designs of the Ubuntu operating system. These requirements for servers are 640X480, while the requirement for desktops and laptops is 1024X768.

While the Ubuntu might run without these requirements it is essential that you have at least these recommended minimums in order get the most out of the Ubuntu operating system.

Filed Under: Programs Tagged With: , ,

A Look at the Linux Based Operating System Debian

March 9, 2011 By Leave a Comment

One of the reasons some computer users have not made the switch to open source software is because of the fear or not being about to know exactly which program or software to download to get what they want. Many open source operating systems come as a blank slate and users have to pick and choose what applications they use and that can be scary to some people. Luckily, through the use of an open source operating system known as Debian computer uses can switch to Linux operating systems without the fear of not being able to download the right type of programs and applications.

The Debian operating system is an operating system that uses the GNU/Linux based distribution protocols. Across the technology world Debian has been praised for being one of the only open source software programs that stick strictly to the Linux philosophies. The main goal of the Debian operating system is to create an operating system that focuses on stability and security for computer usage.

The Debian operating system comes with thousands of pre-made software packages that allow computer users to choose which one will best help their computer needs. All that is required is a simple download and there are tons of open source software programs downloaded directly onto your computer.

Another great benefit of the Debian operating system is that it is available for both server use and personal computer use. This means that governments and institutions can use this type of operating system as well as the personal computer user.

Debian has regular updates and releases available throughout the year. The most recent update to the Debian operating system was done on February 2011. All updates fixed stability issues and security issues that were present in the previous versions.

Filed Under: Development Tagged With: , ,

An Easy to Understand Linux Software Program – The Ark Linux

February 23, 2011 By Leave a Comment

If you have used the Internet for any amount of time then you have probably heard about the operating system known as Linux. When you do the research on Linux the whole idea of the operating system might be completely overwhelming for those that are not as technologically advanced. With this need to have a technological understanding could prevent many people from trying out a Linux based operating system. However, what if there was a way to download a Linux based system that requires very little technological knowledge. That is exactly what the Ark Linux aims to do.

The Ark Linux is a Linux based operating system that was developed by a group of computer users. It is an open source program that is completely free to use. The goal of Ark Linux is to make an easy to install and understand Linux operating system.

Ark Linux achieves this goal by create easy to use CDs that help users through the installation process. The process is so simple and easy to understand that it guides users on how to click the mouse and what is needed. The basic installation of Ark Linux contains all the tools and applications that a regular computer user will need so there is no need to have research and find other programs on the Internet. These applications and programs include a web browser, instant messaging program, file sharing and a document tool.

Other goals of Ark Linux include the ability to provide only the basic elements that computer users will need so there is no overfilling the space on the computer. It also allows computer users to download other computer software programs with ease.

The whole idea behind the Ark Linux system is to make sure that computer users have an easy to understand Linux based operating system that is quick and easy to install.

Filed Under: Programs Tagged With: ,

Linux Compatible Software Allow Businesses To Reap Savings

December 31, 2010 By Leave a Comment

One of the major criticisms of Linux is that very few applications exist that are compatible with Linux. According to these critics since Microsoft Windows dominates the market for operating systems, the lion’s share of software available is also made to run on this popular operating system. However, a quick Google search will quickly put this myth to rest. As a consequence, one of the more intriguing applications available is Moodle.

The Modular Object Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (or Moodle) is a free open source eLearning software that can be found and downloaded on the internet and run on Linux based systems. This course management system is comparable in size or scope to Blackboard or Angel, two course management systems used by major universities and colleges around the world.

However, one advantage that Moodle carries over the competition is that Moodle content can be customized through the creation of plug-ins and modules using PHP. This allows organizations to create customizable content that can easily delivered to customers.

The possibilities of using this program on a Linux platform are innumerable. Where the high cost of the competition (currently in the tens of thousands dollars per month range for a small school) make it too costly for a small business to use to produce webinars or other eLearning courses as a marketing tool or free support for customers, Moodle provides the same capabilities for free. By pairing Moodle with Linux, small businesses can leverage enormous cost savings and pass those on to their customers.

In addition to the business applications, Moodle also can help drive down the costs of goodwill work. Society as a whole benefits when knowledge is shared, and now Linux users can share information for free.

Moodle is just one of the many exciting applications that can be used on a Linux operating system.  There are many others like the FTP software FileZilla and office suite openoffice.  These are shattering the myth that Linux is not software friendly.

Filed Under: Programs Tagged With: , ,

Free Linux Education Resources for All Linux Users

December 26, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Microsoft Windows is everywhere. Since the late 1980′s Windows has been steadily building market share and today Windows can be found on almost all new computers. With all of this collective knowledge about Windows, it can be easy to simply accept and use Windows due to convenience. However, with a little time the benefits of Linux can be easily learned.

Linux Online has created a useful set of tools aimed at providing site visitors with a wealth of information on Linux. Both beginners and seasoned users can benefit from Linux Online’s free online education modules.

Beginning Users
Linux Online offers a 20 lesson online course that provides users with a strong foundation for Linux beginners. The course starts with the basics such as explaining what Linux; but from there, the course delves into more usage-based applications such as installation of Linux, file structures, and commands.

Intermediate Users
The second online course provided by Linux Online provides the next step of education for beginning users or can be used as a starting point for intermediate level Linux users. This course provides details on more advanced topics such as administering system users, automating tasks, security, using PERL, system services, and Linux Kernel. In addition to this course, Linux Online provides short lessons and how-to’s dealing with specific topics related to Linux.

Advanced Users
The third and final online course provided by Linux Online covers advance topics for the journeyman Linux user. Here topics such as more advanced security, email systems, programming under Linux, Apache, PHP and XML, and a host of other topics are covered in this course. Additionally, Linux Online provides a tips and tricks page that gives knowledge to even the most senior Linux users about how to keep Linux running well.

Although many people take the easy road, the less travelled road is often times better. With a little knowledge, Linux benefits can be realized.

Filed Under: Tips, Tricks, & Help Tagged With: , , ,

Three Reasons Linux Matters

December 23, 2010 By Leave a Comment

When discussing operating systems, the question of why Linux should be used will inevitably arise. In a market dominated by one or a few major players, information about the benefits of Linux may not always be readily available. Although the case for why Windows should be used as an operating system is well defined, but here are a few of the many reasons why Linux matters.

Linux Provides Protection
Most viruses, worms, Trojan horses, and other malware are written for Windows operating systems, so Linux users face fewer threats in the first place. However, if some sort of malware is contracted, Linux provides knowledgeable users with some basic level of protection. That is, Linux will not write to the hard drive until the user gives permission. So with Linux, malware is potentially less likely to spread on a machine.

Linux Runs Faster
With Windows, take a look at the processes running on a computer. Pick one and Google it and chances are that there will be discussion forums complaining about how process x hogs resources and slows down the computer. Over time, Windows bogs down as users install more software. This is because Windows becomes plagued with junk files that slow down processing speeds. Linux runs faster on fewer resources and doesn’t become slower over time.

Linux can be Improved
One of the big marketing pushes with Windows 7 was that users input were solicited to make a better Windows product. This is nothing new to Linux users. Since Linux is open source, it is possible to speak to actual developers of the software allowing direct access for users to improve Linux. In addition, there are many open source software applications for Linux as well that allow users to improve specific software for use with Linux.

Here are just three of the many reasons Linux should be considered as an alternative to Microsoft Windows.

Filed Under: Reviews Tagged With: , ,

What is Linux?

December 17, 2010 By Leave a Comment

Although most people have heard of Linux, perhaps many who are not network administrators do not know exactly what Linux is.

What is Linux?
Like Microsoft Windows or MAC OS, Linux is an operating system. That is, Linux provides an interface that a computer operator uses to interact with the computer. Linux can be found on a variety of computers, mobile phones, and Linux is used as the operating system on ten of the world’s fasted supercomputers. Although there are several commercial Linux packages available to be purchased, Linux can also be found for free under a GNU General Public License.

Linux derives its name from the 1991 book The Linux Kernel written by Linus Torvalds. In addition, the free cost of Linux dates back to the GNU project created by Richard Stallman in 1983 and lends itself to the name GNU/Linux.

Linux is Open Source
A GNU General Public License is basically a free software license. This license allows users to use and modify Linux for both commercial and private use. Perhaps this is one of the biggest strengths for Linux. Since users can use and manipulate the source code for Linux, users of the operating system play a crucial role in the development and improvement of Linux. This improvement process has led to users around the world collaborating to improve the look, feel, and functionality of Linux.

Who Uses Linux?
Although the seeds for Linux were planted in the 1980s, popularity and demand for Linux has been growing steadily over the last several years. Today, Linux is used by several governments such as Russia, India, China, Spain, Portugal, and recently France and Germany has examined adopting Linux. Although MAC OS and Windows dominate the market for operating systems on personal computers, Linux has made strides in increasing distribution in the growing netbook market.

Although Windows and MAC OS dominate the overall market for operating systems, Linux has been making strides to narrow this gap.

Filed Under: Linux Tagged With: , ,
« Older Posts