GNU/Linux as an operating system is very efficient and very powerful. But, GNU/Linux as an idea about how software ought to be developed is even more powerful. GNU/Linux is a free operating system: it is licensed under the GNU Public License. The source code is freely available to anyone who wants it and always will be. The Linux kernel is developed by a unstructured group of programmers from around the world, under the technical direction of Linus Torvalds and other key developers. GNU/Linux is a world-wide movement without any central structure, bureaucracy, or entity to control, coordinate, or otherwise direct its affairs.

GNU/Linux is unique because it does not have, nor is it burdened by, a central structure or bureaucracy to allocate its resources, train its users, or provide support for its products. These jobs get done in a variety of ways: the Internet, consultants, VARs, support companies, colleges and universities. But, increasingly, in many places around the globe, they get done by a local LUG.

Last Updated Wednesday, September 20 2006 @ 01:17 PM MDT