Linux is getting hotter and more mainstream all the time—enough so that even IT administrators who deal primarily with Windows would do well to get their feet wet with Linux.
After all, even Microsoft, through its recent deal with Novell, has begun to cozy up to Linux. However, Linux can be confusing for newcomers, even those who're already quite proficient with other platforms. Whether you're looking to bring Linux into your enterprise, or whether you just want to know what all the fuss is about, learning about Linux is well worth your time. eWEEK Labs has gathered together some advice for striking out into what for many is new terrain.
Understand How Linux Is Different
Some of the greatest benefits, and most confusing aspects of Linux, are rooted in the fact that there's no one Linux—rather, there are many different OSes based on the Linux kernel.
There's not just one Linux kernel, either, but various versions and patched flavors of the kernel. And not every Linux kernel is compiled in the same way: Some are stripped down, while some ship with everything enabled but the kitchen sink.
The good thing about this is that you can tailor Linux to your needs and fix certain problems yourself. (In contrast, most problems with Windows need to be fixed by Microsoft.)
Read the full story on eWEEK.com: eWeek Labs Guide to Linux
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