10 Advantages and Disadvantages of Linux

Advantages and Disadvantages of Linux – Before discussing the Linux operating system and its advantages and disadvantages, you need to know what an operating system is.

The operating system is system software that unifies communication between computer hardware and software . In the computer world, there are various types of operating systems that can be used, for example, Windows, Linux, and MacOS.

For example, the Windows operating system is present and released in various versions, namely Windows XP, Windows 7 , Windows 8, and Windows 10. Meanwhile, the Linux OS comes with a variety of different distributions, including Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Zorin, Elementary, Manjaro, and others.

The Linux operating system is one of the easiest systems to develop. Apart from being used on desktop computers, Linux has been used on Android , servers, and TVs. Through this article, the author will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Linux, which will provide general knowledge for you before using the Linux operating system. Immediately, see the full review below!

What is Linux?

Linux is an operating system that has open source or open source . The Linux operating system is well known to computer users around the world. This OS operates under the GNU license (General Public License). With its free nature, Linux is also free to develop. Legally, GNU gives freedom to Linux users, to change the source code, copy, and develop this system.

Several Linux developments are already available for desktop, server, and even mobile devices. This type of development is called a Linux distro. Popular existing Linux distributions include: Linux Mint, Manjaro, Debian, Ubuntu, Antergos, Solus, Fedora, Elementary OS, and openSUSE. For server distributions include: Ubuntu Server, CentOS, Red Hat Enterprise, and SUSE Enterprise.

At first Linux was designed by Finnish students who were inspired by the UNIX operating system, namely the OS introduced by Andrew in the 1990s. While Linux isn’t as popular as Windows and MacOS , it’s widely used in a variety of devices that you use frequently, namely Android phones , car systems, refrigerators, televisions, and server computers.

Most 90% of the internet is supported by Linux servers, and 80% of smartphone operating systems around the world, are made with the Linux kernel. Apart from being the platform of choice for servers and desktops, Linux is known as the most secure, reliable, and free operating system available.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Linux

Advantages of Linux

Linux as an open source operating system has many advantages. Apart from being free, many Linux programs are also available for free, and of course Linux programs are not inferior to programs on Windows and MacOS. What’s more, Linux doesn’t require large computer resources, so users don’t have to worry about a LAG system or sudden crashes .

1. Efficiency and stability

Linux’s operating system is very stable. Linux OS rarely crashes when used, the system also doesn’t die easily. Linux has a lot in common with Unix, such as the user interface and operating methods.

In addition, Linux also inherits the superior stability and efficiency of Unix. For server needs, Linux rarely experiences downtime. This has been proven by the many technology companies and hosting services that rely more on Linux than other OS.

2. Free

As already explained, this operating system is free and open source. Whether used for personal needs or business needs, on desktops or servers. With the Linux operating system, it is possible for users to choose a Linux distribution for free, according to their wishes and needs. You can also download applications that are not available on the system free of charge.

Linux is also based on the GPL (General Public License), which makes it easy for anyone to use or modify the source code for free. For users who want to choose a Linux distribution from several vendors with additional functionality and features, the user only needs a small fee, which is much cheaper compared to other OS such as Windows .

3. Has fast performance

Users can experience fast performance when using Linux. Users can start the installation process, boot up , and use various applications in it effectively and quickly. Like smart phones, when opening applications simultaneously (multitasking), Linux is the right choice, considering that its performance is quite stable and does not burden the system or memory.

4. Security

Linux is a very safe operating system to use, especially for servers. This is also influenced by the support of users and a large enough community. When there are system vulnerabilities, together with the Linux community will make improvements and close these security holes. Linux users don’t need to worry about their system, because this OS is safe from hacking and virus attacks.

5. Updated updates

Linux users also don’t have to worry about system obsolescence. Linux routinely performs system updates. Every update or update that is made will provide convenience to the system so that it runs faster and safer.

6. Developer options

For you, a developer, it is recommended to choose the Linux operating system. This OS is known to have many libraries that make it easier for developers to create applications. Compared to Windows’ Command Prompt , Linux has a much more optimized Terminal and supports developers. It is known that Linux offers sufficient features for scripting capabilities, so that work is easily completed.

Disadvantages of Linux

Despite its many advantages, Linux isn’t completely perfect for some users. For users who are getting to know computers for the first time and only understand the basics of using a computer , the Linux operating system is not the right choice. Using Linux sometimes feels confusing, especially when installing programs that must be done through the Terminal. Here are some disadvantages of Linux that you need to know.

1. The interface is less familiar

For beginners in particular, it is required to frequently use this operating system to get used to it. In the beginning, the appearance of Linux was a little confusing, because it needed adaptation and learning first. Especially regarding root, Terminal, and other system operations. The Linux operating system requires a deep understanding in order to be able to install and use programs.

For example, when you want to install the desired program, the user cannot install it like in the Windows OS, which only clicks and then follows the installation process. On Linux OS, users must use the command command via the terminal to do so.

2. Lack of hardware support

Most users complain that some hardware drivers are not available on Linux. So far, hardware manufacturers have created more drivers for the Windows and MacOS operating systems, this is possible for users considering these systems are more popular than Linux. So that users are a little disadvantaged by weak Linux hardware drivers.

3. Lack of support for gaming facilities

What Linux lacks is an operating system that doesn’t support gaming needs on computers or laptops. The possibilities are limited to the games provided on this platform, the quality is not as good as the games that can be played on Windows OS. So for users who love to play games will feel dissatisfied when using the Linux OS. In addition, Linux is also affected by graphics that are less supportive for gaming activities.

Conclusion

Famous for its open source and free nature, Linux is widely used as the platform of choice for servers and desktops, the operating system is also known to be the safest, most reliable, and also free. Linux has a variety of distributions that can be used for free, such as Linux Mint, Ubuntu, Manjaro, OpenSUSE and many more.

That’s a brief review of the advantages and disadvantages of Linux, hopefully it can be useful and useful. If there is anything that you don’t like or want to add, please write in the comments column below. Thank You!