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➡ Linux is an open-source operating system.
➡ Definition: Open-source means the source code is publicly available, allowing anyone to view, modify, and distribute it freely.
➡ Key Point: Developed collaboratively by programmers worldwide under various licenses like GNU General Public License (GPL).
➡ Examples: Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, CentOS, Kali Linux.
➡ Advantage: Free to use, highly secure, customizable, and widely used for servers, supercomputers, embedded systems, and smartphones (Android is Linux-based).
➡ Comparison: Unlike proprietary OS (e.g., Windows, macOS), Linux does not require costly licenses and offers full transparency.