By: Dennis Oiro

Linux is one of the widely used operating systems in the tech world today. This open-source OS is developed by a community of accomplished developers and is used on computers, mobile devices, embedded devices, servers, and mainframes. Today, Linux is open to thousands of developers around the world for improvisation and has become the top choice OS among developers.  

Today, this operating system powers supercomputers, bullet trains, Hollywood films, submarines, and the New York Stock Exchange. Furthermore, staff associated with major tech companies like Google, IBM, Intel, HP, and some startups have greatly contributed to the improvements on the Linux code. Check out these 8 amazing facts about Linux and its use in the modern world. 

Linux is Not OS

Most people, especially those who are newly oriented with Linux believe that it is an operating system. However, Linux is a kernel and not an OS.  A kernel simply refers to a central fragment of an operating system. The official name of the operating system is GNU Linux OS and it has other derivatives such as Kali Linux, Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and many more. 

A Code Name is Allocated to All Kernel Versions

Every new Linux kernel that is released is given a unique code name. These names are usually very interesting. For example, TOSSUG Baby Fish, Wet Seal, Affluent Albatross, Sliding Snow Leopard, Suicidal Squirrel, Stable Penguin, and many more. 

A New Release Only Takes 8 Weeks

The update process for the dominating kernel is super-fast. With Linux, you can expect the release of a new version 8 weeks after the initial release. This means that new things are always happening with a kernel in a short time. As a result, people do not have to wait for ages for any problem issue.  Since Linux is an open-source operating system, people get interested in it and they strive to improve the OS. With a strong and dedicated team of developers around the world bringing innovative changes and developing the kernel, Linux upholds its leading position. 

Android Runs on Modified Linux Kernel

Android is one of the most successful and popular Operating Systems today. More than 80% of mobile devices are running Android. Android has also amplified other devices such as video players, vehicle music, tablets, and many more. Even though Android is widely used, very few people know that Android actually runs on the Linux kernel.

Most Super Computers Run On Linux

Over 90% of the fastest computers in the world use Linux. This has become the ideal choice for high-performance computing. In 1998, the adoption of Linux was only 1-2%. However, in the last 15 years, the adoption of Linux OS has grown tremendously to over 90%. Open Source, freedom of use, immense community resources, compatibility, and many more benefits have contributed to this high adoption level in high-performance computing.

Linux Makes a Big Contribution to the World Banking

Most renowned banks around the globe use the Linux System. Some banks are also planning to shift to this operating system. Linux makes a significant contribution to the world of banking because it offers a secure and more stable environment for users. And we all know that one of the principal issues for banks is security. 

The New York Stock Exchange Runs on Linux

The New York Stock Exchange is a major trading organization that trades in the USA and 5 European countries. The trade for this large stock exchange organization is run by Red Hat, which is one of the Linux-based OS. The organization was previously using other operating systems but shifted to Red Hat in 2007. Linux is also used by other stock exchange organizations like the Tokyo Stock Exchange and the London Exchange.

The Military is a Big Linux User

Most military organizations across the globe are using Linux operating system for research, admin, official, and operational purposes. The USA is the denominator and it uses Linux in the Department of Defense. Most submarines including the innovative nuclear submarines, missile systems, UAVs, etc are developed and controlled under a Linux-based system. Military giants like the US military, Chinese military, Russian military, UK military, and others are also using Linux. 

Final Thoughts

Since its inception in 1991, Linux has brought revolutionary change and is used by most industries across the world. Although it started as Linus Torvalds’s hobby, Linux has become quite popular and is taking charge of the tech world. The above-mentioned are just some of the facts and applications of Linux, no wonder this operating system has such a big following.