Linux, the free operating system (as it is commonly known as). There are many benefits to this often overlooked operating system. For years, the term operating system has been used synonymously with brands like Apple and Microsoft, OS X and Windows. But thanks to Microsoft and the release of Vista; more than ever, Linux is finally getting acknowledged by more than just 'the geeky'.
The most obvious benefit of Linux is it's availability. Linux is open source software; and we know that open source software is free. There are no strict licensing restrictions involved with the installation and use of the operating system. The source code is freely available to anyone who wants to manipulate and enhance their operating system experience and everyday use. Let's see Microsoft do that! And you don't have any need or reason to validate any serial numbers or registration keys. The average Linux distribution is completely free of charge. Some developer sites due welcome donations to aid in the development costs of the development process. But they do not require the donations.
The second benefit of Linux is the availability of software to add to your operating system. For example, you need a program that can open your Excel Spreadsheet from your work. But you're using Linux, and you can't find a spreadsheet editor that came with your distribution. What do you do? No need to panic; you simply fire up your package management program and browse one of the many package repositories and download the newest version of Open Office for free. No need to jump in the car and burn up that precious gas to drive down to your local Best Buy to purchase the software. Just point, click, and mark as an install. Then your off to edit your spreadsheet in no time at all. The vast majority of the Linux software (also known as packages) are completely free as well.
Security is another huge benefit that Linux brings to the table. The security risks in the Windows operating system literally number in the millions. With every new security patch and update, it seems like another security hole has opened. Why bother? While the number of virus' for Windows are extremely vast; and there are more virus' emerging every so often for the Mac OS X. Good old faithful Linux has the least amount of virus, spyware, and malware attacking it. Most reputable Linux distros offer regular and free updates to the operating system. And since the operating system is usually maintained by community enthusiasts, there is always somebody working on the next update. Why worry about security risks when you can go back to enjoying your computing experience.
While I could sit here and write all night about the benefits of Linux, I'll wrap it up with one last major benefit. There is a Linux distribution for every need, hobby, or job. There are literally thousands of Linux distributions out there that are free (a few must be paid for); and they include just about any kind of software packages you could possibly ask for. No, the software may not be the latest version or the name brand. However, this doesn't mean it is any less of a great piece of software. And in most cases just as productive as it's proprietary counterpart.
With the ability to test Linux before installing using the awesome Live CD feature that most distributions are using these days; it's never been a better time to check out Linux and see the benefits for yourself. A user friendly distro like Ubuntu, PCLinuxOS, or even a small distro like Puppy Linux are all great options for Linux newbies. And they all have wonderful Live CD capabilities to try out. Why not give it a chance. And just maybe, enough people will stumble upon a Linux alternative for their needs; and the leading closed source brands of operating systems will get the idea to make quality software and user environments (like days of old). But we'll not get into naming any names here; shall we Microsoft.