Is Linux a Programming Language?

When you only enter the IT-sphere or start discovering programming languages to code with, you have really a vast choice. There are Java, Python, SQL, C++, and JavaScript. You wonder which one to choose to succeed in the industry. It is actually all dictated by your targets. If you want to work for Apple, or just create software for this company, you will need to master Swift. If you want to work for Microsoft, C# is the leading one. Then, some individuals learn about Linux and wonder whether it is a programming language as well. 

Looking ahead, it is worth saying that Linux is not a programming language but an operating system only. To be completely honest, it somehow lags behind Windows and macOS but has its own benefits as well. Let’s dive into detail covering the profile of Linux, and its uses in the modern technology world.

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What Linux Stands For?

If referring to loved-by-everyone Wikipedia, it is a Unix-like operating system built on the Linux kernel which has been first introduced to the computer world on September 17, 1991, by Linus Torvalds. It is identified as a computer ecosystem, an essential infrastructure for many programs and software. Accordingly, programming for Linux is now considered the top skill for those who want to pursue a decent, and well-paid job as a back or frontend developer.

Normally, Linux programming can be learned alone without completing any degrees, however, there are several complexities that require you to hire a tutor or be signed up for online courses. For instance, it concerns regular updates and releases linked to the operating system. 

Basics to Linux Programming

To start with Linux programming, you won’t avoid the basics and many theories. As of now, the fundamental knowledge required is how to implement Linux technologies smoothly and innovatively compared to its main competitors. 

For instance, the first thing you should be aware of is the C programming language (by the way, it is the answer to the topic theme, C is a programming language designed for Linux). Then, you have to put yourself in two positions - as a developer of Linux technologies and as the user who uses it daily. It, in turn, involves many functionalities and adaptability practices and approaches. 

Once such basics are learned, you will proceed with the actual usability of the operating system. You will learn that it is open-source which is pretty modifiable for certain purposes. Then, it is a completely budget-friendly choice with which you can access and master many applications and programs which are either free or low in cost.

Then, Linux OS is known today as one of the most stable or better-to-say reliable operating systems which can be run for much time without any need for certain maintenance. For example, when it comes to cybersecurity, you will see many specialists who will claim it as the safest one. Google, Amazon, Facebook do not mind turning to it, so you can build your own brands by learning it. Where else to find it? It is used in servers, security systems, as well as architecture. It is a versatile OS. 

As was hinted above, complexity stands for regular releases and updates. So, by completing the courses you won’t stop learning. You will need to overlook new adds-on to comply with the standards. 

A Little Bit History of Linux

Let’s also involve some considerations on Linux history and common myths around it. First off, Linux is commonly correlated to Unix, which is partially true. Unix is also an operating system but was first introduced back in the 1970s at Bell Labs by Ken Thompson, and Dennis Ritchie. When taking Unix and Linux together, you will see similar tools for interfacing, programming tools to coding, filesystem layouts, and other components. Yes, not all Unix solutions are free of charge compared to Linux.

The history of Linux is traced back to 1991 and Linux Torvalds, who upon the creation of the OS was a student at the University of Helsinki. He focused on creating an OS as a free alternative to Minix (another clone of Unix). At first, he wanted to name it Freax but then was recommended to approach it in a more personalized way. Thus, Linux is named after the creator.

How to Learn Linux Programming?

Normally, pretty much all programmers do it alone with the help of the Internet. They just find sources, and materials, and participate in some kind of camps where students with little to no knowledge in programming do their best to enter the industry. 

If you have basic knowledge about programming, the experts say that you can master Linux in just weeks or months, but of course, if you are tied to the computer acknowledging the theory and practice with no breaks. Otherwise, when you want to dive into fully-packed learning with no existing knowledge, it may take approximately a year of your time BUT WORTH IT.

You can also buy designated books on Linux or find them for free. Otherwise, the path of the least resistance is to sign up for online courses and be guided by experts in the field. Udemy, Skillshare, Coursera, EDx are some of the most popular platforms for acknowledging Linux basics. Yes, the courses are not free, however, your acquired knowledge will be backed up by relevant diplomas and certificates which you can then show to the recruiters for your backup. Finally, do not forget about YouTube, because there you will find dozens of videos on Linux, and may occasionally get responses from the bloggers who can share with you essential tips.

On the occasions, when you are linked to studying Linux in colleges and universities and require STEM assignment assistance, you can also rely on help with programming homework services, e.g. CWassignments where specialists help with different projects. The experts or better to say helpers will meet your expectations on time and affordably.