5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Linux Operating System | Drawbacks & Benefits of Linux Operating System

The open-source operating system Linux was first created for personal computers. It was offered as a substitute for Windows and MacOS. Even while Linux is not as widely used as it once was, programmers and IT managers still favor it.

One kind of operating system that is always changing is Linux, for various reasons including new technology. In addition to being an operating system, Linux may also function as a platform, making it possible to use it in devices other than computers, such as servers, automobiles, and home appliances. 

 

Therefore, as compared to other operating systems, Linux offers greater advantages. You should be aware, though, that Linux has advantages and disadvantages of its own, just like any other operating system. You will be able to determine whether Linux is a worthy operating system or not by using this comparison.

I'll be talking about the 5 Advantages and Disadvantages of Linux Operating System | Drawbacks & Benefits of Linux Operating System. You will learn about the pros and cons of utilizing the Linux operating system from this post.


Now let's get started,

 

Advantages of Linux Operating System

1. Cost

The General Public License is included with the Linux operating system (GPL). Unlike Windows, it doesn't need any licenses. Thus, using the OS is free. On Linux, some software is even completely free. 

 

Because of this, Linux is quite affordable. The software manager has good Windows substitute programs.



2. Security


Linux is built with security in mind by default. Linux is less vulnerable to viruses than Windows. Linux is occasionally impacted by viruses. This is the reason why installing antivirus software is uncommon for Linux users. 

 

The limited market share of Linux also makes hackers less interested in it. Even if it is, locks on every layer prevent them from simply taking over the system.



3. Source Code

One operating system that is available as open source is Linux. It implies that changes to the code are welcome. It is simple for users to modify the code to suit their needs. As a result, you can modify your own operating system. You will, nevertheless, require the necessary expertise of programming.



4. System Requirements


Even computers with modest specs can run Linux OS. It does not require as many resources as the Windows operating system. This OS has fewer memory, storage space, and CPU components overall. 

 

Thus, in order to install this OS, you do not need to upgrade your current hardware. Because of this, Linux is a better option for all systems.



5. System Updates

In terms of system updates, Linux is likewise a step up. The Linux operating system upgrades its system frequently. You don't have to remove your current program in order to upgrade your operating system. 

 

Additionally, there are no installation difficulties with the updates. If you need to upgrade the system, it won't take long. Furthermore, your system shouldn't crash as a result of these modifications.

Disadvantages of Linux Operating System

1. Adaptation

Linux might be difficult for someone with less computer experience to understand. Because of the terminals, most users find it difficult to transition to Linux. Terminals are command line interfaces where certain commands must be entered to accomplish tasks. 

 

Moreover, the distribution that is employed affects the degree of difficulty. With distributions like Arch, Linux training is even more challenging.



2. Software Compatibility 


Well-known programs created for Mac and Windows are not available for Linux. Due to Linux's low market value, many developers are not interested in creating software for it. These programs include Photoshop, iTunes, and Microsoft Office. Although there are replacements to these programs, they fall short of the quality of the originals.



3. Gaming

Like software, games aren't inherently compatible with Linux. The reason Linux is not very popular among game creators is that it is not a platform that they are using. Thus, you shouldn't count on your beloved game to function under Linux. 

 

On the other hand, a growing number of games have been created on Linux in recent years. Even if you can download any game via third-party software like Steam, the game won't function as smoothly as it would on a native operating system.



4. Hardware Compatibility


Linux may be used to connect to almost any piece of hardware. But the drivers are the source of the issue. Linux has a completely different idea of drivers than other operating systems. Here, the drivers are embedded right into the kernel. 

 

The freshly connected hardware device could not have the correct drivers because they are already preinstalled. As a result, the hardware device that is connected is incompatible.



5. Technical Support

Linux lacks technical support because it is an open source operating system. If you can't solve the issue on your own, it won't be fixed. Users must search online for solutions to every issue; a community forum may be helpful. 

 

This cannot ensure that the issue you encounter will be the same. In addition to these, it is challenging to locate a Linux specialist. Otherwise, you would have to search for alternative Linux distributions whenever a problem arises.