Course Content
Introduction to Linux
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Overview of Linux distributions and RHEL
Architecture of Linux.
Basic Commands and Navigation
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Understanding basic Linux commands
Navigation of the command line interface.
Managing files and directories.
Linux-RHCSA

 

Overview of Linux Distributions and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL)

Linux is a family of open-source operating systems based on the Linux kernel. Many different versions, or "distributions," have been developed, each tailored for specific uses, preferences, and environments. These distributions are often referred to as "distros."

1. What is a Linux Distribution?

A Linux distribution (distro) is a version of the Linux operating system that includes the Linux kernel along with various software packages, utilities, and tools. Distributions vary by the package management system they use, their default configurations, and the types of environments they are optimized for.

Some common components of a Linux distribution include:

  • The Linux Kernel: The core of the operating system, responsible for managing hardware resources and system processes.
  • Package Management System: Tools to install, update, and remove software (e.g., apt for Debian-based, yum/dnf for Red Hat-based).
  • Software Packages: A collection of software applications, utilities, and services needed for day-to-day tasks.
  • Shell & User Interface: Command-line interface (CLI) and possibly a graphical user interface (GUI).

Popular Linux Distributions

  1. Debian-based Distributions

    • Ubuntu: Perhaps the most popular Linux distribution for desktops and servers. It focuses on ease of use and user-friendliness. Ubuntu is based on Debian but is released with more frequent updates and a polished user experience.
    • Linux Mint: A user-friendly distro based on Ubuntu, known for its beginner-friendly features and beautiful desktop environments.
    • Debian: The base distribution for many other distros, known for its stability, long-term support, and security.

  2. Red Hat-based Distributions

    • Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL): A commercial Linux distribution designed for enterprise environments, known for its stability, security, and long-term support. RHEL is used in many data centers, servers, and business-critical systems.
    • CentOS: A free, community-driven alternative to RHEL that was traditionally binary-compatible with RHEL but recently transitioned to CentOS Stream, a rolling-release distro that sits just ahead of RHEL in the development cycle.
    • Fedora: A community-driven project sponsored by Red Hat that acts as an upstream source for RHEL. Fedora is often the first to receive new Linux features, and it is known for being cutting-edge.

  3. SUSE-based Distributions

    • openSUSE: A community-driven project, with two main versions: openSUSE Leap (for stability) and openSUSE Tumbleweed (rolling release).
    • SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES): A commercial Linux distribution designed for enterprise use, focusing on scalability, security, and high availability.

  4. Arch-based Distributions

    • Arch Linux: A minimalistic, rolling-release Linux distribution targeted at advanced users who prefer to build and customize their system from the ground up.
    • Manjaro: A user-friendly version of Arch Linux, providing an easy installation and pre-configured desktop environment.

  5. Others

    • Slackware: One of the oldest Linux distributions, known for being minimalistic and aimed at advanced users.
    • Alpine Linux: A security-focused, lightweight Linux distribution, often used for containers and embedded systems.
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