Did you know Linux powers 90% of the world’s supercomputers and most of the internet’s servers? But have you ever thought about using it as your daily driver?

Welcome to this blog! In this post, I’ll be discussing Linux and why it’s better to daily-drive a Linux system.

What is Linux? #

Linux is an Operating System (or more precisely, a Kernel) based on Unix-like systems, created by Linus Torvalds in 1991. It is open-source and has huge use cases in the world of technology.

A kernel is a set of rules that instructs computer hardware to follow specific protocols, acting as a bridge between hardware and software.

The Linux kernel is primarily written in C, with some parts being rewritten in Rust for improved safety and performance.

Why is it a better option to daily-drive Linux? #

Linux is a lightweight operating system that typically uses 1.5–2.5 GB of RAM, making it ideal for older laptops and PCs. In comparison, Windows consumes 5–6 GB on average.

Linux is faster than Windows by a wide margin, in nearly every situation.

Since Linux is a kernel, its source code is used to create many distributions (distros). Each distro serves general and specific purposes.

Examples of Linux Distributions #

1. Mint Linux – Stable and beginner-friendly.
2. Ubuntu – Good for both beginners and servers.
3. Fedora – User-friendly and cutting-edge.
4. Arch Linux – DIY distro for intermediate to advanced users.

There are hundreds of Linux distributions to choose from!

🛡️ Security and Privacy #

• Linux’s open-source nature means vulnerabilities are quickly found and patched by the community.
• Proprietary systems like Windows have less transparency and may include hidden backdoors.
• Due to its lower market share, malware targeting Linux is extremely rare.

💰 Cost Efficiency #

Most popular Linux distros are completely free, unlike Windows which costs around ₹12,000 ($139). All Linux updates — whether kernel, desktop environment, or system-level — are free.

🎨 Customizability #

Linux is highly customizable compared to proprietary operating systems. You can choose from many Desktop Environments (DEs) and Window Managers (WMs) depending on your workflow.

Examples:

• DEs: GNOME, KDE Plasma, XFCE, Sway
• WMs: Hyprland, i3, AwesomeWM, DWM, BSPWM

My Setup #

These are my personal Linux configurations — Hyprland on the left and KDE Plasma on the right.

Linux allows you to fully customize your workflow and make your desktop visually pleasing.

Software Availability #

Contrary to popular belief, Linux doesn’t lack software — it has more options than most think.

Package Managers by Family:

• apt – Debian-based (Debian, Ubuntu, Pop!_OS, Kali)
• dnf / yum – Red Hat-based (Fedora, CentOS, RHEL)
• pacman – Arch-based (fast and efficient)

Open Source Alternatives:

• Office Suites → OnlyOffice, LibreOffice, OpenOffice
• Graphics Design → GIMP (instead of Photoshop)
• Code Editors → Vim, Neovim, Emacs, Nano, VSCodium

Using Linux exposes you to the FOSS ecosystem, strengthening open-source awareness and collaboration.

⚙️ Performance and Stability #

Linux is known for its performance and efficiency, largely due to minimal bloatware.

Key Advantages:

• Minimal Resource Usage: Low background memory usage.
• No Forced Updates: You control updates — even after 15 years, it will still work fine.

LTS Distributions and Kernels #

LTS = Long Term Support. Some Linux versions are maintained for years with guaranteed stability and updates.

• Ubuntu LTS: 5 years of security support.
• Debian Stable: Known for rock-solid long-term reliability.

There are also LTS kernel versions that ensure stable driver and security updates.

Enhanced Productivity and Use Cases #

Linux boosts productivity due to its speed and command-line efficiency. While it supports great GUIs, many users eventually prefer using the terminal for faster workflows.

• 90% of Internet servers run Linux because of its stability and scalability.
• Cybersecurity professionals prefer Linux since most tools run better here.
• Linux proficiency is a valuable skill during technical interviews.

Common Myths About Linux #

Myth 1: Linux is only for tech geeks #

Not true! Linux can be used for general purposes. The terminal is not mandatory — it’s just powerful. You can browse the web, use apps, and enjoy a normal desktop experience.

Beginner-friendly distros include:

• Ubuntu
• Fedora

Myth 2: It’s hard to install software or use browsers #

False again. Package managers make installing software much easier than Windows. And yes — you can use browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Brave, etc. just as usual.

Getting Started with Linux #

Try these beginner-friendly distros:

• Linux Mint — Highly recommended
• Ubuntu
• Fedora

Bottom Note #

Linux is more than an operating system — it’s a philosophy of freedom, efficiency, and empowerment. With its vast software library, security, performance, and endless customization, Linux is a powerful alternative to traditional systems.

Transitioning might seem unfamiliar at first, but with its community support and intuitive interfaces, it’s an enjoyable learning journey.

By adopting Linux, you’re not just choosing an OS — you’re joining a global movement built on collaboration and innovation.

So, why not give Linux a try? You might just discover a new way of computing.

Thank You for Reading #