Getting Started with Red Hat Enterprise Linux Notes

UNIX, GNU, AND LINUX

  • Unix: Operating system developed in 1969 for mainframe computers by AT&T.

  • GNU: Stands for "GNU's Not Unix"; project initiated in 1984 to create a free UNIX-like OS.

  • Linux: Created by Linus Torvalds in 1991 based on Unix; GNU General Public License allows free use, modification, and distribution.

LINUX KERNEL

  • Linux: Kernel providing essential services like memory management, security, and scheduling.

  • Source code available free; modifications must be shared with users.

IS LINUX REALLY FREE?

  • Free Software Foundation (FSF): Supports GNU project; users can modify and use source code.

  • Companies can charge for Linux versions, like Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), often for support.

OPEN SOURCE

  • Linux licensed under GNU/GPL allows free copying, distribution, and modification.

  • The license permits selling software without requiring royalties and mandates inclusion of source code.

SOFTWARE DISTRIBUTION

  • Closed Source: Protects source code, offering only compiled versions.

  • Public Domain: Free without restrictions on use.

  • Freeware: Free to use but not necessarily open-source.

  • Shareware: Free to use but requires payment for extended functionality.

LINUX DISTRIBUTIONS

  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL): Subscription-based, commercially supported.

  • CentOS: Free version based on RHEL.

  • Fedora Project: Community-driven platform for new features.

  • Debian: Community-managed, focuses on user needs.

  • Ubuntu: Based on Debian; offers commercial support and aims for user-friendliness.

  • OpenSUSE: Based on the SUSE lineage.

SUPPORTED HARDWARE

  • Each distribution has Hardware Compatibility Lists (HCLs) available on their websites to check hardware support.

GETTING SUPPORT

  • Numerous support resources are available online for various Linux distributions, including forums and documentation sites.

DOCUMENTATION

  • Red Hat Documentation: Available on their official site.

  • Ubuntu Documentation: Community and official guides available online.

RED HAT DEVELOPERS NETWORK

  • Free RHEL copy can be downloaded by registering on the Red Hat Developers Network.

  • RHEL download page available under the developers' section.