Why programmers choose Linux over Windows
By: Firdaus H. Salim
Tags: Linuxenvironment, Programming, Linux, Ubuntu, Windows

Why programmers choose Linux over Windows. Made by Firdaus H. Salim.

Most programmers choose to work in a Linux environment because of its many advantages. However, that does not summarize the arguments that will most probably arise from this question. Some programmers prefer Windows operating system because they like clicking, and that is okay. I will forever work in Linux. Forever the sudo-team. This article features the reasons programmers will most probably choose to work on a Linux environment than Windows.

Ubuntu is one of the major Linux distros, and my favorite one. In this article, I may sometimes say ‘ubuntu’ to refer to the Linux environment. Please note that.

What is Linux?

Just like Windows, iOS, and Mac OS, Linux is an operating system. An operating system is a software that manages all the hardware resources associated with your desktop or laptop. To put it simply, the operating system manages the communication between your software and your hardware. Without the operating system (OS), the software wouldn't function.

Why Linux?

1. Open source

Linux is also distributed under an open-source license. Open source follows these key tenants:

The freedom to run the program, for any purpose.

The freedom to study how the program works, and change it to make it do what you wish.

The freedom to redistribute copies so you can help your neighbor.

The freedom to distribute copies of your modified versions to others.

These points are crucial to understanding the community that works together to create the Linux platform. Without a doubt, Linux is an operating system that is ‘by the people, for the people.’ It's about freedom and freedom of use, freedom of modification, and of choice.

2. Support for emerging technologies

Ubuntu is the best Linux distro for developers for many reasons. The first reason relates to the support for different emerging technologies, such as deep learning, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Deep learning is radically growing with large-scale investments from Microsoft, Google, and Amazon. The tech giants are investing in creating dedicated tools for deep learning.

Ubuntu is the best OS for developers because of the various libraries, examples, and tutorials. These features of ubuntu help considerably with AI (Artificial Intelligence)and ML (Machine Learning), unlike any other OS. Ubuntu also provides reasonable support for the latest versions of free open source software and platforms. It is also the first choice for many renowned frameworks such as Keras, OpenCV, PyTorch, TensorFlow, and Theano.

3. Linux offers a variety of distributions

Linux has several versions to suit any type of user. From new users to hard-core users, you’ll find a “flavor” of Linux to match your needs. These versions are called distributions (or, in the short form, “distros”). Nearly every distribution of Linux can be downloaded for free, burned onto disk (or USB thumb drive), and installed (on as many machines as you like).

Popular Linux distributions include:

LINUX MINT

MANJARO

DEBIAN

UBUNTU

ANTERGOS

SOLUS

FEDORA

ELEMENTARY OS

OPENSUSE

4. Linux is user friendly

Many computer users consider Linux-based systems hard to use and made for developers. It’s a huge misconception and Ubuntu Linux acts as a perfect myth-buster. Just like Windows, installing Ubuntu Linux is very easy and any person with basic knowledge of computers can set up his/her system.

For a beginner, I recommend beginner-friendly babysitter distros like Ubuntu or Linux-mint.

5. Virus are alien entities in Linux

Taking advantage of the inbuilt firewall, Linux is a world free of viruses. No fake antiviruses. No antivirus cost.

6. Freedom to system customization

The freedom to customize your system is one of the major advantages that come with a Linux-based operating system. If you don’t like any desktop environment, replace it with a new one. Just in case you’re finding the desktop environment unpleasant, experiment with something new. Ubuntu Linux naturally inherited these characteristics, making it a superb choice for daily use. You can try out tools like Compiz and make your Ubuntu experience more appealing.

7. Active and supportive Linux community

Just like other Linux-based projects, Linux has substantial community support, and it’s one of the biggest advantages of Ubuntu over other distros. You can also go online, visit Linux forums, and get the answer to all kinds of Linux queries.

8. Improved compatibility, included drivers

The alternative versions of Ubuntu ship with the latest Linux kernel. This allows it to run on a number of older hardware as well as the new systems with the latest chips. Ubuntu also comes with many pre-installed drivers that save time and frustration.