Linux 101
From Sfvlug
Contents |
Up Front
This is a work in progress, an attempt to make amends for a bad presentation. I've started with the original outline for my presentation but after getting a better idea of the types of solutions people new to Linux are looking for I'm in the process of revision and improvement. I will also add links to help make it a better resource.--Miasma 20:23, 23 February 2009 (PST)
Linux 101 outline
Brief History of Computing
This section is included to give some background for understanding why open source software is important
even to people that have no intention of learning how to program a computer themselves.
manual & mechanical calculating devices
WWII code breaking machines, Alan Turing
hard wire programming using patch cables
software (recipe, magic spell)
machine instructions (on/off switches representing ones and zeros)
high level instructions
interpreters, compilers, byte code
source code
open source vs proprietary
operating systems [1]
single task, single user
multiuser multi-task
common uses of computers
server
scientific educational
personal (desktop) computing
Brief History of GNU/Linux
GNU created as free alternative to UNIX [2]
Linux started by student as a hobby [3] [4] [5]
GNU/Linux
Advantages
free as in no or low cost
free as in freedom
can be modified easily by user
projects need not die with original author
options, customizable workspace
designed for usability not profitability
Disadvantages
incompatible with some proprietary software, mostly games
drivers for new hardware can be delayed and may lack features
Common Uses of GNU/Linux
Server
file server
web server
firewall/router
Desktop Environment
workstation
application server
kiosk
development (traditional programming)
user - system administrator - developer
Common User Applications
Office
word processors (edit text)
spreadsheet
presentation
drawing
Internet
~ browsing websites
~ email
~ IM (IRC, AIM, etc.)
~ VOIP
~ file sharing
Media
media players
media authoring
Games
How to get help
manuals (man pages)
books (printed or electronic)
periodicals (printed or electronic)
online (wikis, forums, newsgroups, blogs)
Google (specific techniques, google.com/linux)
IRC (how to ask a question (favor) from a stranger)
schools
people (friends, co-workers)
LUGS, invitation to visit SFVLUG booth
