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Linux Torvalds made the source code to the Linux kernel available because he wanted both for it to serve as a learning tool, and to convince people to work on it.

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Why is Linux referred to as open-source software?

Linux is referred to as "open-source" precisely because it is. Open-source is the ability for anyone to view the code necessary to make the program. The Linux kernel, and most of the programs that are available for it, have their source code available, under a variety of licenses.


How is Linux licensed?

Linux is licensed under the terms of the GPL. You are free to view, modify, and distribute the source code, provided that you make your changes available under the GPL as well.


When did Windows make Notepad2 available?

Windows never made Notepad2 available. It is an open source product that a team of independent programmers put together themselves. It was first released in 2004.


Why is TCP faster in Linux than in Windows?

Pretty much everything is faster in Linux than in Windows. The Windows programmers need to prove to their bosses that they are doing the right thing, but the Linux programmers only need to prove to their peers that they are doing the right thing when they make improvements. Linux has things like zero-copy networking, which are not widely implemented in the Windows kernel(s).


Can you incorporate Linux in a proprietary product?

Many embedded devices incorporate Linux, and those are proprietary products. But the Linux license (GPL) requires that the distributor also make the source code available, including any modifications they may have made to the operating system.


What makes Linux open-source?

The creator of Linux made it open source so everyone around the world could contribute and make it better


Can you sell Linux?

Yes. The Linux kernel and most programs bundled with it are licensed under the GPL, LGPL,or other similar license that permits commercial redistribution, as long as you make the source code available to your customers. If you want to sell copies of a pre-established Linux distro, make sure that it does not bundle programs that prohibit such activity.


Can you install Adobe programs on Linux?

Adobe does make a few programs available for Linux, namely Adobe Flash Player and Adobe Acrobat Reader. Adobe does not make programs like Adobe Flash or Photoshop available for Linux, and recent versions of these programs do not work in Wine.


What are the advantages of using a Linux dedicated server?

The advantages of using a Linux dedicated server are access to more scripting languages and Linux is an open-source free software (costs less to make a Linux server).


Is Linux available for free?

This is a question without a simple answer. If by "Linux", you mean the Linux kernel, then yes. The source code is available free of cost, and you are free to modify it with only a few restrictions. If you meant "a Linux distro", then maybe. Most Linux distros, such as Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and Slackware are available free of charge as well, and with similar rights to modify and redistribute. However, a few Linux distros, such as Red Hat Enterprise Linux or Xandros use a lot of proprietary software, and are not made available free of charge.


What is the Slackware Linux Project about?

Slackware Linux is an advanced Linux operating system designed for easy and simple use as well as great stabilities. The idea is to make a Unix-like Linux distribution and provides many development tools and features for those who like to web browse and those who want additional programs.


How does Linux make a profit?

Linux is completely free and open source. Usually people or companies generate revenues using Donations from various contributors. But companies like Red Hat linux, they make a profit by selling their support and services to their customers.