WGU D281 Linux Foundations - Udemy Section 2: Lesson 1 - Selecting an OS and Understanding Licensing questions with complete verified solutions 2025

Where did the kernel originate?

(i) It originated at Apple for macOS.

(ii) Linus Torvalds created it.

(iii) It originated at Microsoft for Windows.

(iv) It originated at IBM.

Linus Torvalds created it. (2.1.1)

Which programming language is commonly used in Linux?

(i) HTML

(ii) JavaScript

(iii) CSS

(iv) HTML5

JavaScript

(JavaScript is a programming language that is commonly used in Linux.) (2.2.1)

You are working for a big university. The cost of a computer is one of the main reasons why most of the students are avoiding computer science classes. What is the correct way to resolve this issue?

(i) Use Raspberry Pi

(ii) Use HP 360 computer

(iii) Use an IBM supercomputer and create the VM

(iv) Build a service-oriented computer

Use Raspberry Pi

(Raspberry Pi is a way to make computer science classes for affordable for students.) (2.2.1)

You are working as an IT manager. Your team is spending a lot of time doing infrastructure management. What is the ideal solution to reducing time in infrastructure management and increasing the time in actual software development?

(i) Apply advanced hybrid principles for software development.

(ii) Hire additional team members to manage the infrastructure.

(iii) Use the managed services provided by a public cloud.

(iv) Use the build as a service concept.

Use the managed services provided by a public cloud.

(The managed services provided by a public cloud is the ideal solution to reducing time in infrastructure management and increasing the time in actual software development.) (2.2.1)

You are working as a software developer and need to evaluate the operating system requirements. Your software is going to be deployed on the cloud. Which operating system is open source and can reduce the cost of overall software deployment on the cloud?

(i) Linux

(ii) Windows 10

(iii) iOS

(iv) iO X

Linux

(Linux is open source and can reduce the cost of overall software deployment on the cloud.) (2.2.1)

What is an operating system (OS)?

The software that provides the most elementary functions of a computer. Manages hardware and software resources

Includes a shell around the kernel (can be GUI or command-line). (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What is the kernel?

The core of the operating system. Manages system resources and hardware directly. (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What 3 criteria constitute a shell in the context of an OS?

(i) Interface surrounding the kernel

(ii) Can be graphical (GUI) or command-line (CLI)

(iii) Allows user interaction with the OS

(2.1.1_USec13_106)

How does an OS interact with hardware?

Through software components called drivers. Drivers allow the OS to control and communicate with hardware devices. (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What basic tools are typically included in an OS?

Text editors, Networking commands, File managers, & System navigation tools. (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What is Unix and where did it originate?

A family of multitasking, multiuser operating systems. Originally developed in 1969 at Bell Labs. (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What is Linux and how does it relate to Unix?

(i) A Unix-like OS that clones Unix functionality

(ii) Open source and not derived directly from Unix

(iii) Basis for many modern distributions (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What is GNU and what does it stand for?

"GNU's Not Unix". Is a project to develop a free Unix-like OS. Forms part of many Linux systems (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What is Bash?

(i) A common Unix shell

(ii) Found in many Linux distributions

(iii) Functionality is mostly consistent across systems, but some commands may vary slightly. (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What are 2 examples of commercial Unix distributions?

(i) Oracle Solaris (version 11.2)

(ii) HP-UX (version 11i v3 update 14)

(2.1.1_USec13_106)

What is OS X and what is its Unix heritage?

Apple's operating system, based on BSD Unix (also includes a variant called iOS for mobile devices). Offers Bash shell access, though some commands may vary (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What are the advantages of using OS X?

Designed for Apple hardware, ensuring compatibility and reliability. Ideal for creative professionals needing commercial software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite) (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What are the 2 limitations of OS X?

(i) Proprietary and restricted to Apple hardware.

(ii) Cannot legally run on non-Apple systems per license agreement.

(2.1.1_USec13_106)

What is the role of Windows in the OS market?

Microsoft Windows has dominated Intel-based PCs and servers for decades. Windows 10 is widely available, often as a free upgrade

(2.1.1_USec13_106)

What are some limitations of Windows compared to Linux?

(i) Proprietary software—source code is not open.

(ii) Limited hardware support over time compared to Linux.

(iii) Licensing restricts redistribution and customization.

(2.1.1_USec13_106)

Why might someone choose Windows?

Broad application support including commercial software and games. Familiar environment for many users (2.1.1_USec13_106)

How does Linux support older hardware? (hint: 2 ways)

(i) Linux developers often maintain support for older devices.

(ii) Enables users to extend the life of aging PCs more than commercial OS vendors.

(2.1.1_USec13_106)

What are 5 general factors to consider when choosing an OS?

(i) Application compatibility (e.g., Adobe tools); (ii) Hardware support and reliability; (iii) Openness and customizability; (iv) Licensing and legal restrictions; (v) System resource usage and longevity of hardware support (2.1.1_USec13_106)

What are 5 key factors to consider when comparing Linux distributions?

(i) Distribution name

(ii) Availability (free vs. commercial)

(iii) Package format (Deb, RPM, Pacman)

(iv) Release cycle (rolling, 6-month, 2-year, etc.)

(v) Administrator skill level required (novice, moderate, advanced)

(2.1.1_USec13_107)

Which form of Linux is this?

- Free distribution

- Uses Pacman packages

- Rolling release model (constantly updated)

- Considered complex, not beginner-friendly

Arch Linux (2.1.1_USec13_107)

Which form of Linux is this?

- Commercial (requires payment for support)

- Uses RPM (Red Hat Package Manager)

- Major releases approximately every 2 years

- Moderate complexity for administrators

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) (2.1.1_USec13_107)

What is CentOS and how does it relate to RHEL? (hint: 5 ways)

(i) Free version of Red Hat Enterprise Linux

(ii) Uses RPM packages

(iii) Follows the same 2-year release cycle as RHEL

(iv) Community-supported (no official commercial support)

(v) Moderate complexity

(2.1.1_USec13_107)

Which form of Linux is this?

- Free distribution

- Uses RPM packages

- Based on the same 2-year release cycle as RHEL and CentOS

- Moderate complexity

- Community-supported

Scientific Linux (2.1.1_USec13_107)

Which form of Linux is this?

- Free distribution

- Uses RPM packages

- Part of the Red Hat family

- Has a 6-month release cycle (shorter support lifespan)

- Often includes the latest Linux features

- Moderate complexity

Fedora (2.1.1_USec13_107)

Which form of Linux is this?

- Free distribution

- Uses DEB packages

- Major releases approximately every 2 years

- Releases named after Toy Story characters (e.g., Jessie, Wheezy)

- Moderate complexity

Debian (2.1.1_USec13_107)

Which form of Linux is this?

- Free distribution based on Debian

- Uses DEB packages

- Regular Ubuntu has a 6-month release cycle

- Designed for novice to moderate users

Ubuntu (2.1.1_USec13_107)

Which form of Linux is this?

- Free and based on Debian

- Uses DEB packages

- Has a 2-year release cycle

- Supported for 5 years

- Designed for users who want longer support with fewer changes

Ubuntu LTS (Long-Term Support) (2.1.1_USec13_107)

Do we always need a graphical user interface (GUI) in Linux?

No, especially not on servers. Many tasks can be done from the command line. GUI is more useful for desktops or end-user systems. (2.1.1_USec13_108)

What is the trend in system administration regarding GUI usage?

Moving toward command-line interfaces. Even Microsoft encourages PowerShell and released "core" editions of Windows Server (2008, 2012) without a GUI. (2.1.1_USec13_108)

What are the 3 components of a graphical user interface (GUI) in Linux?

(i) X Server: Starts the graphical environment

(ii) Display Manager: Provides the login screen (e.g., GDM for GNOME, KDM for KDE)

(iii) Window Manager/Desktop Environment: Manages windows and application layout (e.g., GNOME, KDE) (2.1.1_USec13_108)

What 3 tasks are better suited for a GUI rather than a command line?

(i) Word processing

(ii) Multimedia and full-feature web browsing

(iii) General desktop applications that require visual interaction

(2.1.1_USec13_108)

Can we use the command line for browsing and editing text?

Yes, using text-based browsers like w3m or lynx. Editors like nano or vi can be used for text editing. However, they are not ideal for large documents or modern web browsing. (2.1.1_USec13_108)

How are Linux servers typically managed? (hint: 3 ways)

(i) Via SSH (Secure Shell) connections

(ii) Administrators use command-line shells

(iii) GUI is rarely used or seen on servers

(2.1.1_USec13_108)

What 2 tools allow remote GUI access to a Linux server?

(i) VNC (Virtual Network Computing).

(ii) Other graphical remote desktop clients.

These are less common due to security and performance concerns

(2.1.1_USec13_108)

Why is command-line management often preferred in server environments? (hint: 4 reasons)

(i) Faster than point-and-click interfaces

(ii) Easily repeatable with scripts

(iii) Uses fewer system resources

(iv) Aligned with Unix/Linux design philosophy (2.1.1_USec13_108)

What are the downsides of running a GUI on a server?

(i) Consumes memory and CPU even when not in use.

(ii) Presents potential security vulnerabilities through open ports.

(iii) Could allow remote desktop access if improperly secured.

(2.1.1_USec13_108)

What are the 2 basic security recommendation regarding GUIs on servers?

(i) If you're not using the GUI, don't run it

(ii) Disabling unnecessary GUI components reduces attack surface

(2.1.1_USec13_108)

What is the most common open source license?

GPL (General Public License) (2.1.1_USec4_35)

The following are examples of what?

- BSD License

- Creative Commons License

- Apache License

Open source licenses (2.1.1_USec4_35)

What are the two main organizations that support open source?

(i) Free Software Foundation (FSF)

(ii) Open Source Initiative (OSI)

(2.1.1_USec4_35)

Can businesses succeed using open source software?

Yes, businesses can succeed and make money with open source. (2.1.1_USec4_35)

What is the "open core" model in open source business?

A model where the core of the software is open source. Additional features or services may be commercial or proprietary. (2.1.1_USec4_35)

What are the 3 common business models used with open source software?

(i) Advertising-based revenue

(ii) Accepting donations from users or organizations

(iii) Offering paid support, services, or consulting (2.1.1_USec4_35)

Does open source or free software still require a license agreement?

Yes, a license agreement is still required. Licenses protect the rights of the original software developers. (2.1.1_USec4_36)

Why are open source licenses important? (hint: 3 reasons)

(i) Prevent companies from distributing the software without source code

(ii) Prevent improper charging for software that is meant to be freely distributed

(iii) Ensure contributors' and users' rights are protected (2.1.1_USec4_36)

What is the most common license in Linux distributions?

The GPL (General Public License) (Currently at version 3) (2.1.1_USec4_36)

What 3 things does the GPL license allow you to do?

(i) Distribute the code.

(ii) Distribute and modify the source code.

(iii) Must make modified versions of the source code available to others.

(2.1.1_USec4_36)

How is source code typically made available under the GPL?

Often via a website. Users can download both binaries and source code. Not required to distribute the source code with the binary, but must make it available. (2.1.1_USec4_36)

Why is making the source code available important?

Allows developers to study, improve, and contribute to the software. Supports the growth and evolution of open source projects. (2.1.1_USec4_36)

What is the BSD license?

Stands for Berkeley Software Distribution license. Simple 3-clause license. Allows redistribution as long as the original copyright notice is included. (2.1.1_USec4_36)

What are Creative Commons licenses used for? (hint: 3 reasons)

(i) Typically used for content like graphics, videos, or training materials

(ii) Allow sharing under specific conditions (e.g., attribution required, non-commercial use)

(iii) Help protect content creators from unauthorized commercial use. (2.1.1_USec4_36)

What are the 3 purposes of Creative Commons licenses in open content?

(i) Enable creators to share their work with conditions

(ii) Prevent others from profiting unfairly from someone else's work

(iii) Provide flexible rights while still allowing reuse and redistribution

(2.1.1_USec4_36)

Who is Richard Stallman and what is his contribution to open source?

Founder of the Free Software Foundation (FSF). Advocate for free and open community-developed code. Believes software should be free to use and open to inspect for ethical and security reasons. (2.1.1_USec4_37)

What does "free and open" software mean according to Stallman?

Free: Users can do what they want with the code

Open: Code is available to read, understand, and modify (2.1.1_USec4_37)

Why is open software important in today's digital world? (hint: 3 reasons)

(i) Helps users and experts understand vulnerabilities.

(ii) Ensures transparency about how software handles data.

(iii) Prevents hidden behavior from software vendors. (2.1.1_USec4_37)

What is the mission of the Free Software Foundation (FSF)? (hint: 3 purposes)

(i) Advocates for user rights in computing.

(ii) Supports freedom to study, modify, and distribute software.

(iii) Promotes transparency in software to protect digital privacy. (2.1.1_USec4_37)

What is the website for the Free Software Foundation?

www.fsf.org (2.1.1_USec4_37)

What does the Open Source Initiative (OSI) do? (hint: 3 purposes)

(i) Maintains and evolves open source licenses.

(ii) Provides definitions and guidance for open source licensing.

(iii) Hosts information about licenses like GPL v2 and v3. (2.1.1_USec4_37)

What is the website for the Open Source Initiative?

www.opensource.org (2.1.1_USec4_37)

What is the relationship between the OSI and the Linux Professional Institute (LPI)?

LPI is an affiliate member of the OSI. Collaborates on open source education and licensing awareness. (2.1.1_USec4_37)

What common license types can be found at opensource.org? (hint: 3 types)

(i) GPL v2

(ii) GPL v3

(iii) Other OSI-approved open source licenses

(2.1.1_USec4_37)

Why should people read open source licenses, even if they include legal language? (hint: 3 reasons)

(i) Helps understand usage rights and obligations.

(ii) Clarifies the freedoms and restrictions of using the software.

(iii) Provides transparency in how software can be reused or shared.

(2.1.1_USec4_37)

What is an example of a successful open source business?

Red Hat (Profitable company built entirely on open source software and services.) (2.1.1_USec4_38)

How does Red Hat make money? (hint: 3 ways)

(i) Subscription services

(ii) Paid support and software updates

(iii) Enterprise-level service guarantees

(2.1.1_USec4_38)

Why is paid support important for organizations? (hint: 3 ways)

(i) Ensures reliability and stability.

(ii) Offers guaranteed assistance.

(iii) Crucial for large-scale or mission-critical systems. (2.1.1_USec4_38)

What is the support model for Ubuntu? (hint: 3 characteristics)

(i) Ubuntu is free to download and update.

(ii) Offers community-based support.

(iii) Paid support is available through Canonical. (2.1.1_USec4_38)

How does Ubuntu generate revenue? (hint: 2 ways)

(i) Optional donations.

(ii) Paid enterprise services through Canonical. (2.1.1_USec4_38)

What is does the following description describe:

- Open source system monitoring software

- Free to use core version

- Commercial version offers extended features and support

Nagios Core (i.e Commercial version (Nagios XI)) (2.1.1_USec4_38)

What are the 3 characteristics of the business model used by Nagios?

(i) Open core model.

(ii) Free core product.

(iii) Additional paid enterprise features and support. (2.1.1_USec4_38)

What 3 things does Puppet software do?

(i) Manages system configurations.

(ii) Enables centralized configuration control across multiple machines.

(iii) Offers both open source and enterprise versions. (2.1.1_USec4_38)

How does Puppet's business model work? (hint: 2 ways)

(i) Core product is open source.

(ii) Puppet Enterprise adds value through extended features and support. (2.1.1_USec4_38)

What is another way individuals can earn income from open source contributions? (hint: 3 ways)

(i) Providing free tutorials and paid training (e.g., through Udemy, Pluralsight).

(ii) Running websites or blogs with tutorials.

(iii) Earning revenue from ads and sponsorships. (2.1.1_USec4_38)

What is the Urban Penguin example used to illustrate? (hint: 3 things)

(i) Monetizing open source knowledge through tutorials and courses.

(ii) Earning ad revenue from blogs and educational content.

(iii) Providing value while still contributing to the community.

(2.1.1_USec4_38)

Can open source developers still make money while giving away their source code?

Yes. Value can come from services, training, advertising, enterprise features, and trust. Transparency and open code can encourage adoption and trust. (2.1.1_USec4_38)

Where can you find sample open source licenses? (hint: 2 ways)

(i) Maintained by the OSI (Open Source Initiative).

(ii) Available at www.opensource.org.

(2.1.1_USec4_39)

What are some primary open source licenses discussed? (hint: 3)

(i) GPL (GNU Public License)

(ii) BSD License

(iii) Creative Commons License

(2.1.1_USec4_39)

What organizations are behind open source initiatives? (hint: 2)

(i) Free Software Foundation (FSF) at www.fsf.org

(ii) Open Source Initiative (OSI) at www.opensource.org (2.1.1_USec4_39)

Who played a major role in the open source movement?

Richard Stallman. Founder of the Free Software Foundation. Advocate for free and open community-developed software. (2.1.1_USec4_39)

What is Red Hat's open source business model? (hint: 3)

(i) Service and support model.

(ii) Open source software is free.

(iii) Customers pay for value-added services and guaranteed support.

(2.1.1_USec4_39)

What is the "open core" business model?

(i) The core product is open source.

(ii) Additional proprietary features, plugins, or services are sold separately (Examples include Nagios and Puppet). (2.1.1_USec4_39)

How can businesses use advertising as part of an open source model? (hint: 3 ways)

(i) Offer software or training content supported by ad revenue.

(ii) Display ads on websites or within free software.

(iii) Generate income while still giving away valuable content.

(2.1.1_USec4_39)

What is essential for success in open source business models? (hint: 3 ways)

(i) Offering a high-quality product people want.

(ii) Building trust and value through transparency and support.

(iii) Creating demand for services or related commercial offerings.

(2.1.1_USec4_39)

Describe what makes a Linux distribution and why there are so many:

A Linux distribution is a bundle of components required to run a Linux system. Includes a Linux kernel and usually utilities for managing the system, application software, and a package Management system for installing and removing software. Different Linux users have different needs, such as desktop office automation, multimedia production, mathematical simulations, or server features, such as web or database server. The different Linux distributions are each customized to support specific features and functions so that you don't have to do that yourself. (2.1.1_Ch1_ExamEssentials)

Explain how Linux is used in embedded systems:

Embedded systems often use a stripped down Linux system that specializes in controlling specific hardware. Devices such as Android phones, IoT monitors, TiVo recorders each use a customized Linux system that performs only the functions required for those devices. (2.1.1_Ch1_ExamEssentials)

Explain how Linux is used in cloud environments:

The cloud environment requires a distributed computing environment that can be expanded as needed. Linux servers provide an inexpensive platform that can easily be modified. (2.1.1_Ch1_ExamEssentials)

Describe the basic differences between Linux and the more popular macOS and Windows environments:

The basic difference between Linux and the macOS and Windows environments is a choice. For just about every feature of the OS, Linux doesn't lock you in to a specific environment, but instead provides multiple options for you to choose from. This includes desktop features, application software, and even what you pay for software support. (2.1.1_Ch1_ExamEssentials)

Explain Linux distribution life-cycle management:

Each OS requires updating from time to time to keep up with technology, improve features, fix software bugs, and guard against security vulnerabilities. Life-cycle management relates to how often an OS is updated. Some OSs are updated on a regular basis, whereas others are updated only as needed. Different Linux distributions support different life cycles, depending on their user base. (2.1.1_Ch1_ExamEssentials)

Which of the following is a function of the Linux kernel? (Choose all that apply)

(A) Allocating memory for use by programs

(B) Allocating CPU time for use by programs

(C) Creating menus in GUI programs

(D) Controlling access to hard disks

(E) Enabling programs to use the network

(i) Allocating memory for use by programs

(ii) Allocating CPU time for use by programs

(iii) Controlling access to hard disks

(iv) Enabling programs to use the network (2.1.1_Ch1_ReviewQs)

Which of the following is an example of an embedded OS?

(A) Android

(B) CentOS

(C) Fedora

(D) Mint

(E) Red Hat

Android (2.1.1_Ch1_ReviewQs)

Which of the following is a notable difference between Linux and macOS?

(A) Linux can run common GNU programs, whereas macOS cannot.

(B) Linux's GUI is based on the X Window System, whereas macOS is not.

(C) Linux cannot run on Apple Macintosh hardware, whereas macOS can run only on Apple hardware.

(D) Linux relies heavily on BSD software, whereas macOS uses no BSD software.

(E) Linux supports text-mode commands, whereas macOS is a GUI-only OS.

Linux's GUI is based on the X Window System, whereas macOS is not. (2.1.1_Ch1_ReviewQs)

Where did the Linux kernel come from?

(A) It was derived from Microsoft Windows.

(B) It was derived from Apple macOS.

(C) It was derived from AT&T Unix.

(D) It was derived from BSD Unix.

(E) It was created by Linus Torvalds.

It was created by Linus Torvalds. (2.1.1_Ch1_ReviewQs)

If you log into a Linux system in graphical mode, you cannot use text mode commands in that session. True or False?

False.

(You can open a terminal and use text-mode commands even in graphical mode.) (2.1.1_Ch1_ReviewQs)

CentOS is a Linux distribution with a long release cycle. True or False?

True (2.1.1_Ch1_ReviewQs)

A Linux text mode login prompt reads:

(A) login:

(B) welcome:

(C) Enter:

(D) userid:

(E) Enter your userid:

login: (2.1.1_Ch1_ReviewQs)

A common security problem with Windows that's essentially nonexistent on Linux is:

(A) Commercial software

(B) Network firewalls

(C) Network routers

(D) Viruses

(E) Software management packages

Viruses (2.1.1_Ch1_ReviewQs)