What is Linux?
Welcome to Linux
Linux is a free, open-source operating system that powers most of the internet. It runs on web servers, cloud platforms, smartphones (Android), supercomputers, and IoT devices. If you want a career in DevOps, backend development, or cloud engineering — Linux is essential.
Unlike Windows or macOS, Linux is built around the command line. While it has graphical interfaces, the real power comes from the terminal. You'll learn to navigate, manage files, configure servers, and automate tasks — all from the command line.
bash
# Linux is everywhere:
# - 96% of the world's top 1 million web servers
# - 100% of the world's top 500 supercomputers
# - Android (3+ billion devices)
# - AWS, GCP, Azure cloud instances
# - Docker containers
# - Raspberry Pi and IoT devicesTip:You don't need to install Linux to learn it! The terminal simulator on the right lets you practice real Linux commands in your browser.
Try Your First Commands
Let's start with some basic commands. Type these in the terminal on the right:
bash
# See who you are
whoami
# See where you are
pwd
# List files in the current directory
ls
# Get help on any command
helpThe terminal is your workspace. Every command you type is executed immediately, and the output appears right below. Don't worry about breaking anything — this is a safe, simulated environment!
Terminalbash
Welcome to the Linux Terminal Simulator!
Type commands below. Use 'help' to see available commands.
Try: