Linux at one time was considered the domain of the hardcore computer geek. Yet now it is so popular that not only is it the operating system for some of the world’s most visited web servers, it’s commonly used to run the workstations of casual home users. In fact nearly all XMission servers and workstations run Linux from the receptionist to the desk of XMission’s president, Pete Ashdown.
Linux is an operating system that is freely available to download and install on a compatible PC. It is “open source,” meaning that the source code that makes the system work is open and available to all programmers to alter and improve as they see fit. It is gaining in popularity due to various factors: it is much less expensive to purchase than other operating systems, many tools have been developed which make Linux easier to use than it has been in the past, and Linux is much more secure than other, commercially available operating systems for the PC. Because of its open source nature there are many developers and programmers that are always releasing useful, creative and inexpensive software that runs on Linux. The popularity of Linux continues to climb as more people experiment with it and learn how to make it work for them.
If you’re interested in learning about Linux, a good way to start is to attend one of XMission's Linux Install Festivals, which happen once or twice a year. During a Linux Install Festival anybody can bring in their computer and have a Linux expert assist them with installing, configuring and answering questions about the Linux operating system. If you’re feeling more adventurous you can simply point your browser to http://mirrors.xmission.com and download and install one of the many Linux distributions available there. Of course, XMission staff knows Linux and can help you connect your new Linux machine to the Internet once it is up and running.