11. Januar 2019
Linux
HARDWARE
At Bizsys Aps we implore the use of Linux, which of course is why we use it for several of our own devices. Linux is used for our high fashion cash registers and our Raspberry Pies. We use it because it is trustworthy, stabile and easy to manage.
What is Linux?
Linux is an operating system like Microsoft, Apple, etc. In general, an operating system (OS) manages all the hardware resources associated with your computer. In other words, without an OS your computer and other electronic devices, would not be able to realize your commands. However, Linux differs from other OS’ because it is a ‘open-source’ system.
What are the advantages of open source?
Open-source means, it is open and free for everyone to use. Also, if you have the technical capabilities you will also be able to contribute to the software creation. Further, Linux follows certain philosophies (Linux 2018):
- The freedom to run the program, for any purpose.
- The freedom to study how the program works and change it to make it do what you wish.
- The freedom to redistribute copies so you can help your neighbor.
- The freedom to distribute copies of your modified versions to others.
Because of these unique principles the developers of Linux believe the OS to be ‘by the people, for the people’ (Linux 2018). This statement is also reinforced by the vast communities that emanates from the OS. The more than liberal approach delivered by the ‘freedom’ of Linux enables more users and facilitates a high degree of co-creation amongst the communities.
Besides freedom of use, Linux conveys a state-of-the-art user-security. One might think that because Linux is open-source, this will diminish the level of security. However, this turns out to be Linux’ strongest line of defense (Computer World 2018). Because highly skilled coders can read each other’s codes, they are able to comment and even help each other. Also, Linux is a Unix-based system which is known to have less exploitable security flaws compared to many other systems. Thus, we use Linux at Bizsys Aps, because we always put safety first, and as stated prior in this article, this solid system gets you where you want to get.
What are the basic components of Linux?
Linux has the same components as most typical operating system, consisting of: shells, system utilities, kernel, GUIs and an application program. One of Linux’s benefits is that it comes with supplementary features and every necessary code is downable without any cost.
What is a LILO?
LILO (Linux loader) is a dual-boot loader for Linux. If you need your computer to power the Linux OS, you need a boot loader. Thus, LILO enables you to load Linux, and is the most popular boot loader, and is well-known for a fast boot-up. Essentially, what happens when a computer boots up, is a reaction from the BIOS, which initially performs some tests in the MBR where the LILO resides. In the end the BIOS will then transfer control to the LILO. This is basically how the LILO is powered up, and given control, so it can perform the load process of Linux.
What is Swap Space?
Swap space is the second type of memory in Linux-systems. Usually there are two main types of memory in a computer. 1. The RAM and 2. The Hard drive. When you use your computer, and you have a lot of windows open at the same time, you use the RAM memory. Thus, the RAM memory is what enables your computer to work with a variety of things at the same time. However, the RAM memory is limited, thus your computer’s capabilities are limited. In order to free up space in the RAM the action of Swap Space happens. Swap Space substitutes diskspace for the Ram memory. Thus, it creates a ‘virtual space’ which frees up space in the RAM memory.
