This document provides information on using Linux at Carnegie Mellon. Linux is a free UNIX-type operating system that was originally created by Linus Torvalds with the assistance of developers all over the world. Linux is developed under the GNU General Public License and the source code for Linux is freely available to everyone. Linux runs successfully on most computers, laptops, and platforms, including most PC based CPUs, Sun Sparc, Digital Alpha, and Macintosh.
Distribution refers to the compiled source code, usually bundled with a few extras or modifications.
Some distributions are free and can be downloaded, while others are available at a low cost. Before you decide on using Linux at Carnegie Mellon, read the See Statement of Support . Policies and Guidelines Carnegie Mellon Computing Services has adopted specific policies and guidelines that apply to the campus computing environment. It's necessary that you abide by these guidelines in order to avoid possible fines or loss of network services. We recommend use of the service or technology over competing alternatives, supported or unsupported.