What is Linux and Why Do Hackers Use It?
Tags: linux, cybersecurity, security, tutorial
Published: 2023-09-19 16:17:16

Linux is an open-source operating system that is free to use and widely available. It is known for its stability, security, and flexibility, which makes it a popular choice among developers and users alike.

So why do hackers use Linux over other operating systems? Mostly because Linux offers a far higher level of control via a few different approaches.

Basically linux is favored by certain individuals with malicious intent due to its heightened level of control, which can be achieved through a variety of methods.

_Hackers tend to favor Linux because of its open-source nature, which allows them to access and modify the source code. This makes it easier for them to identify vulnerabilities and exploit them for their purposes. Additionally, Linux has a wide range of powerful tools and commands that can be used for various hacking activities such as network scanning, penetration testing, and malware analysis._

Another reason why hackers prefer Linux is its command-line interface, which provides more control and customization options than other operating systems. Moreover, Linux is less vulnerable to viruses and malware due to its **strong security features** and the fact that it is less widely used than other operating systems like Windows.

Now Discussing upon the key approaches and reasons about why linux is used by hackers:

**_Linux Is Open Source_**

Linux is different from Windows as it is an open source operating system. This means that the source code is available to users, giving them the ability to modify and manipulate it as they wish. If you are looking to customize your system beyond its intended capabilities, having access to the source code is crucial.

_**Linux Is Transparent**_

In order to hack efficiently, it’s crucial to have a good grasp of your operating system, as well as the system you are targeting. Linux is designed to be transparent, which means that all of its components are **_visible and can be modified_**. However, Windows is not as open, and Microsoft has made it challenging to access the inner workings of its operating systems, so it’s difficult to know what’s happening “behind the scenes.” By contrast, Linux provides a clear view of every aspect of the operating system, making it easier to work with and more effective for hacking purposes.

_**Linux provides precise control over system operations.**_

Linux provides an extensive level of control over the system, allowing users to customize it to their needs. Unlike Windows, where control is limited to what Microsoft permits, Linux gives users complete control through the terminal, from the minutest details to the most extensive ones. Moreover, scripting in any programming language is made easy and efficient with Linux.

It is widely known that the majority of hacking tools are developed specifically for Linux operating systems.

It is noteworthy that more than 90 percent of hacking tools are designed specifically for Linux. Although some exceptions exist, like Cain and Abel and Wikto, they are few and far between. Even when hacking tools like Metasploit or nmap are adapted for Windows, not all the features are fully transferred from Linux.

**_Linux/Unix is the future._**

Most tech geeks believe that Linux and Unix systems will dominate the future of information technology. Although Microsoft had its heyday in the 1980s and 1990s, its growth has slowed. Since the advent of the internet, Linux/Unix has been the preferred operating system for web servers because of its stability, reliability, and robustness. Today, Linux/Unix is used in two-thirds of web servers and is the market leader. Linux is typically used in embedded systems such as routers, switches, and other devices, and the **world of virtualization** is dominated by Linux. Softwares such as **VMware and Citrix are built on the Linux kernel**. _**Also, more than 80 percent of mobile devices run Unix or Linux (iOS is Unix, and Android is Linux)**_, indicating that the future of computing lies in mobile devices such as tablets and phones. In contrast, Microsoft Windows has only 7 percent of the mobile devices market. Therefore, I believe that it is a wise decision to invest in Unix/Linux for the future of information technology.

_In summary, Linux is favored by hackers due to its open-source nature, powerful tools and commands, strong security features, and customization options. However, it is important to note that Linux can be used for both good and bad purposes, and it is up to the user to use it responsibly.
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