Explaining+Linux

=__ Explaining Linux __=

This page is to help with understanding the current mystery that is Linux. I have been told that Linux is a very good operating system and is happily free, so it seems like a good idea to learn about it. Better than that though if you are working in the IT industry (which I hope to be) you can add extra money to your pay packet if you know Linux. The main thing is it is command line based and writing long lines of garbled command text makes the idea of learning it a big task in my mind. So if I write my own guide I can always refer back to this.

__Types of Linux__
Although Linux is one operating system there are different versions available. What the difference between them is at this point I do not know, however the following is a list of versions I have come across:
 * < * openSUSE
 * Ubuntu
 * Red Hat
 * Back Track ||< * Kubuntu
 * Debian
 * Fedora
 * Linux Mint ||

Stephen Lilly (n.d.) states on the ehow website that the diffferent types types of Linux are called 'distributions' and says //'Each distribution has a different main goal and is tailor-made for that function'//'. I will try and mention what a distribution is for when looking at each operating system.

__VirtualBox__
To help understand a program you must use it, it's no good just reading about it. To enable me to use different operating systems I will be using a program called [|VirtualBox]. When you install this on your computer it creates a virtual PC within your computer. You can then perform the installation procedure for any operating system on this virtual PC. Once installed you can use this operating system in the virtual environment and even connect to the internet.

__OpenSUSE__
The first distribution I will be looking at will be 'SUSE', this is because I have to learn it as part of my FdSc in Applied Networking, plus you have to start somewhere. You ca go to the openSUSE website to down load the full version and because Linux is 'Open Source' (created by an online network of people) help with using the software is done through an online Wiki Portal. There are also a vast number of books and pdf's that can be found online to assist people wanting to learn about the subject.

Once you turn on openSUSE it looks very shiny

__Module Aims__
This purpose of this module is to provide the knowledge and skills of using and configuring Linux operating systems. The module provides theoretical underpinning and practical experience in a wide range of advanced skills.

__Learning Outcomes__
Upon successful completion of the module students will be able to:
 * LO1** Perform a range of administrative and maintenance tasks utilising both GUI and CLI.
 * LO2** Install and configure a workstation and connect it to a LAN, including installation of suitable software.
 * LO3** Demonstrate the ability to use shell scripting to perform basic administrative tasks.

=__ Glossary __=

Distribution = Different types of Linux. Open Source = Created by an online network of people that jointly work on the source code of the program.

=__ References __=

Stephen Lilley (n.d.) **Types of LINUX Operating Systems** [Internet]. Available from: <[|http://www.ehow.com/about_5139588_types-linux-operating-systems.html>] [Accessed 13 February 2011].