An introduction for students in my operating systems course for community college students
As a Computer Information Systems (CIS) major, you’re already familiar with operating systems like Windows and macOS. They’re great for desktops, but when you look behind the curtain of the world’s digital infrastructure—from massive cloud data centers to the smartphone in your pocket—you’ll find a different hero running the show: Linux.
Learning Linux isn’t just about adding another skill to your resume; it’s about understanding the engine that powers modern technology. For a future IT professional, network admin, or cloud engineer, knowing your way around Linux is non-negotiable. It’s the key that unlocks a deeper understanding of how computers and networks truly operate.
What Exactly Is Linux?
At its heart, Linux is an open-source operating system kernel. The kernel is the core program that manages all of your computer’s hardware and resources. It was created in 1991 by Linus Torvalds as a free and open alternative to proprietary systems.
Because the kernel is open source, anyone can view, modify, and use its code. This has led to the creation of hundreds of different Linux-based operating systems called distributions (or “distros”). Think of the Linux kernel as a car engine. Companies and communities then build a complete car around it—the body, the seats, the dashboard. Ubuntu, Red Hat, Debian, and Fedora are just a few popular distros, each offering a different user experience and toolset, but all powered by the same reliable Linux kernel.
Why It’s a Game-Changer for Your Career
So, why should you care? Because Linux is everywhere.
- It Runs the Cloud—The vast majority of servers that power the internet and public clouds (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud) run on Linux. To work in cloud computing, you must be comfortable in a Linux environment.
- The Command Line is a Superpower—While graphical interfaces (GUIs) are user-friendly, the real power lies in the command-line interface (CLI). The CLI allows you to perform complex tasks, automate workflows with scripts, and manage systems with a speed and precision that a mouse can’t match. This is a core skill for any serious system administrator, security analyst, or network engineer.
- It’s the Foundation of DevOps—The DevOps movement, which focuses on automating and integrating software development and IT operations, is built on Linux and its command-line tools. Skills like shell scripting and managing packages are foundational to this high-demand field.
How to Get Started
Diving into Linux is easier than ever. You don’t even need a separate computer.
- Use Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)—This lets you run a full Linux environment directly on your Windows machine.
- Virtual Machine—Download a free tool like VirtualBox and install a beginner-friendly distro like Ubuntu.
- Raspberry Pi—Grab one of these cheap, credit-card-sized computers and start tinkering.
Learning Linux is an investment that will pay off for your entire career. Start exploring the command line today, and you’ll be taking a massive step toward becoming a more capable and marketable IT professional.