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Session 0458

Linux Workshop Session

Hugh Jack (jackh@gvsu.edu)

Grand Valley State University

Abstract

Linux is a free UNIX clone that was developed by volunteers around the world. Although Linux is almost a decade old, it went largely unnoticed by the general public until a couple of years ago. Since then it has become very popular with individual users, universities and large corporations. For example, IBM has made it a major part of their business strategy for server hardware. Many software companies already offer Linux versions of their software, including products such as Oracle, Labview and MSC Nastran. Other companies have developed embedded applications using Linux. Currently Linux can be found in devices as small as a wristwatch [1] and as large as a Beowulf class supercomputer [2]. The popularity of Linux is based on three factors: - costs are lower because the software is free and it runs well on less expensive hardware. - it has more software, capabilities, and features than other operating systems. - the source code is open, so users can customize the operating system to meet their needs.

This workshop will present the Linux operating system in general, and its current status in com- puting. This will be followed by a discussion of the basic features and operation of a Linux sys- tem. User applications will also be discussed, and demonstrated. Finally the future of the operating system will be discussed. An outline of the presentation is given below.

1.0 What is it?

Linux is an open source operating system. It is open because users and developers can use the source code any way they want. This allows anyone to customize it, improve it and add desired features. As a result Linux is dynamic, evolving to respond to the desires and needs of the users. In contrast, closed operating systems are developed by a single corporation using static snapshots of market models and profit driven constraints.

Linux is free. This allows companies to use it without adding cost to products. It also allows peo- ple to trade it freely. And, with the profit motive gone, developers have a heightened sense of com- munity interest. The Linux community has developed a tremendous spirit because of these core development concepts.

Proceedings of the 2001 American Society of Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright 2001, American Society for Engineering Education

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Jack, H. (2001, June), Linux Workshop Session Paper presented at 2001 Annual Conference, Albuquerque, New Mexico. 10.18260/1-2--9522