This article will help you understand the real-world applications of Linux and why it’s such a popular platform. We take a deep dive into who uses Linux, what Linux is used for, and what companies use it. As the most popular operating system in the world, it comes as no surprise that one hundred percent of supercomputers use Linux.
What Is Linux?
Linux is an operating system (OS). An operating system is software that links computer hardware and the user. It’s often used in devices like smartphones, mainframes, embedded systems, computers, and tablets. An OS is used to manage hardware systems, run applications, store files, and provide an interface for users. Other common operating systems are Windows, IOS, and MacOs.
Linux’s features include a bootloader that helps to load the operating system. A kernel manages the CPU and memory. The Init system manages the bootloader, Daemon is a background processor, and the graphical server displays the visuals on your server. Linux has a desktop environment that provides user-friendly elements like desktop icons, widgets and toolbars.
There are several desktop environments to choose from and each environment provides unique functionalities and aesthetics. Some of the top desktop environments include Cinnamon, Pantheon, Enlightenment, Xfce, or Gnome. The operating system is used across the board from home appliances and phones to desktop operating systems and supercomputers.
How Popular Is Linux?
Linux is the most popular operating system in the world. It has multiple advantages that set it apart from other operating systems. New users find it easy to use while more experienced users are able to fully experiment with it. The statistics below showcase the popularity of Linux in the tech industry.
- Linux/Unix system distribution for software development was 47 percent globally, in 2021. The site further indicates that Linux OS versions are an excellent option for developers who prefer open-source software.
- Linux is used by 38 percent of all websites. The most popular versions are Ubuntu, Debian, CentOS, Redhat, Gentoo, Fedora, and SuSe. 35 percent of all Linux websites use Ubuntu, 15 percent use Debian, and 10 percent use CentOS.
What Is Linux Used For?
Linux is used in network operations, databases, desktops, mobile devices, and scientific computing. It is known as one of the most secure operating systems to use. We dive a little deeper into popular Linux uses below.
Gaming
The operating system has thousands of games available to buy or download. Since it doesn’t need a high-end build for great performance, using Linux helps developers save money in game development. Users also prefer Linux because it’s customizable. The operating system allows users to change the setups as they please.
Telecommunications
Due to Linux’s easy customization feature, the operating system is excellent for telecommunications. Operators rely on the OS to increase access and distribution of transmissions by users. Licensing terms, lower costs, security, and high performance are not the only advantages of Linux. It is also extremely reliable and popular because of the quality of its source code and testing resources.
Security
Each user is protected by other users and they would need their own password and user ID for access. The operating system is easily customizable and modifiable and you need explicit permission to access the system. There are also Linux distributions that shield the users from hacking, such as Ubuntu and Redhat. Viruses infecting Linux systems can only affect one user account, making it easier to identify and remove.
Embedded Systems
Linux is popularly used in computers and servers because it is affordable. Other than Linux’s security and the fact that it’s reliable, most developers prefer it because of its scalability. There will always be increases in demand for everything from smart TVs and tablets to car navigation systems and satellite receivers.
Software Development
Linux is versatile and fast. It features multiple open source software development tools that make the process of development easier. It features compilers, interpreters, and code editors for multiple programming languages.
List of Linux Companies: Overview
| Companies That Use Linux | Who Uses Linux at This Company? | What Does This Company Use Linux For? | Estimated Number of Employees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Software Development Manager, Linux Engineer, System Engineer | Embedded Systems, Application Development, Security | 798,000 |
| Dell | Senior Software Engineer, Networking Architect, Cyber Security Automation Engineer | Embedded Systems, Application Development | 158,000 |
| Software Engineer, Enterprise System Engineer, Product Operations Engineer | Security, Embedded Systems, Application Development | 58,604 | |
| System Administrator, Software Engineer, Network Engineer | Security | 135,301 | |
| IBM | Senior Linux Engineer, Linux System Administrator | Security | 346,000 |
| Microsoft | Software Engineer, Senior Cloud Infrastructure Engineer | Security, Embedded Systems | 181,000 |
| NASA | IT Specialist, Computer Engineer, Applications Developer | Application Development | 17,000 |
| Oracle | Data Engineer, Full Stack Developer, Cloud Software Developer | Security, Application Development | 135,000 |
| Redhat | Software Engineer, DevOps Engineer, Senior Solutions Architect | Application Development, Security | 19,000 |
| Samsung | Data Engineer, Backend Software Engineer, Linux System Administrator | Security, Application Development | 267,937 |
List of Companies That Use Linux, Expanded
Below are details of the top Linux companies to work for and their average salaries.
Amazon
This is a top multinational company dealing with cloud computing, ecommerce, and artificial intelligence. It features subsidiaries like Amazon Web Services, Zoox, Kuiper Systems, Amazon Lab126, IMDb, and Whole Foods Market. The company also provides digital streaming content via Amazon Prime Video, Amazon Music, and Twitch. The opportunities with Amazon are extensive as they require many professionals to deliver services.
Average Salaries for Amazon Employees Who Use Linux
- Software development manager | $167,345
- Linux engineer | $111,857
- System engineer | $105,008
Dell
Dell repairs, develops, and supports computer products and services. It supplies personal computers, peripherals, data storage devices, network switches, and electronics. It is popular in supply chain management, cloud computing, analytics, and electronic commerce.
Average Salaries for Dell Employees Who Use Linux
- Senior software engineer | $120,279
- Networking architect | $132,393
- Cyber security automation engineer | $114,498
Facebook, now popularly known as Meta, is an online social network service founded by Mark Zuckerberg. It is the largest social network in the world and can be accessed via mobile phones, personal computers, or tablets. It has subsidiaries like Instagram, Messenger, VoIP, and WhatsApp.
Average Salaries for Facebook Employees Who Use Linux
- Linux Kernel software engineer | $135,881
- Enterprise systems engineer | $169,137
- Production operations engineer | $125,253
Google is one of the big five companies in the American tech industry. It is a global technology company that deals with Internet-based products and services. The company handles advertising technologies, cloud computing services, software, and hardware.
Their main products are Google Docs, Google Search, Google Slides, Google Calendar, and Google Drive. Google requires experienced professionals to fill in their wide range of open job positions. If you have experience using Linux, consider the following Google Linux jobs below.
Average Salaries for Google Employees Who Use Linux
- System administrator | $93,666
- Software engineer | $149,000
- Network engineer | $137,182
IBM
International Business Machines (IBM) is a multinational technology company with headquarters in New York. The company provides computer hardware, middleware, and software products. It also provides hosting and consultation services concerning nanotechnology and mainframe computers. It is also a research organization with popular inventions like the SQL programming language, magnetic stripe card, hard disk drive, and the floppy disk.
Average Salaries for IBM Employees Who Use Linux
- Senior Linux engineer | $124,635
- Linux systems administrator $92,194
- Linux on power compiler developer | $90,852
Microsoft
Microsoft is a multinational corporation that manufactures computer software, electronics, and personal computers. The company has popular products in the IT industry such as Microsoft Office Suite, Internet Explorer, Edge web browsers, Xbox consoles, and Microsoft Surface. The company also provides email services, books, and multimedia titles.
Average Salaries for Microsoft Employees Who Use Linux
- Software engineer | $136,877
- Senior cloud infrastructure engineer | $201,921
- Senior product manager | $164,215
NASA
National Aeronautics and Space administration, more popularly known as NASA, is a US-based agency that deals with technology and silence related to space or air. The company has nine centers located across various states in the US.
Average Salaries for NASA Employees Who Use Linux
- IT specialist | $101,979
- Computer engineer | $129,781
- Applications developer | $118,038
Oracle
Oracle is a multinational corporation that provides software products and services. The company focuses mainly on tailor-made cloud solutions, services, and hardware. Clients rely on Oracle to provide cloud engineering and database management systems.
Average Salaries for Oracle Employees Who Use Linux
- Data engineer | $118,297
- Full stack developer | $99,274
- Cloud software developer | $133,536
Redhat
This enterprise software company provides open-source products to clients. It is popular for its operating system platforms, applications, Linux containers, management products, storage, and consulting services. The company is keen on hiring professionals who will help solve IT problems and make a positive impact in the industry.
Average Salaries for Redhat Employees Who Use Linux
- Software engineer | $81,065
- DevOps engineer | $128,700
- Senior solutions architect | $157,802
Samsung
Samsung is a South Korea-based company that manufactures electronic devices. The company produces appliances, memory chips, integrated systems, and digital devices. It’s one of the leading tech innovation companies in the world with several subsidiaries. It owns Samsung Electronics, Samsung Heavy Industries, Samsung Life Insurance, Samsung engineering, and Samsung C&T Corporation.
Average Salaries for Samsung Employees Who Use Linux
- Data engineer | $159,905
- Backend software engineer | $117,623
- Linux system administrator | $110,798
Linux Bootcamps: Who Uses Linux to Teach Students How to Code?
Many instructors use Linux to teach students how to code. The best Linux bootcamps have expert instructors teaching students about the operating system. These bootcamps provide top-notch curriculums, mentorship, and flexible learning options. We listed three top Linux bootcamps to help jumpstart your career.
- Clarus Way. The course features two modules, IT and security fundamentals, and security operation center. You will interact with Windows, Kali, Linux, and Ubuntu in a lab environment. It’s an excellent course to help you become a cyber security analyst, security administrator, help desk manager, cloud engineer, or IT project manager.
- Code Fellows. Learn Linux by attending Code Fellows Code 501 course. The master essentials of the Bash command line is a one-week course that costs $1,125. The program will help you learn how to manipulate the ACL structures of the Linux system. Once completed, you should be able to maintain a stable and secure system.
- Fullstack Academy. Fullstack Academy provides a Cyber OnRamp course to help beginners learn the Linux command lines. You will learn the history of Linux, workflow, Linux file systems, and security concepts. Learn the foundations of cyber security by accessing the initial 25 hours of Fullstack cyber bootcamp for free.
Which Real-World Linux Use Case Is Right for Me?
There are many real-world Linux use cases to choose from. NASA, ereaders, TVs, and smartwatches use Linux. Gamers use a Linux-based operating system called SteamOS, and it is also used by the most popular social media platforms. Many businesses, like the New York Stock Exchange and government agencies, run on Linux. This showcases what a great operating system it is to learn.
Uses of Linux FAQ
You should use Linux instead of Windows because it’s a free operating system. The distro and the applications built into it are absolutely free. Windows OS comes at a cost and you have to pay for Windows applications like SharePoint and MS office.
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The biggest advantage of using Linux is that it’s a secure operating system. It prioritizes security and privacy and because of its different distributions, hackers run into challenges when trying to access it. Linux users are forced to seek additional permission to access files or open attachments. Other advantages of Linux are that it’s easy to use, and it is a stable high-performance operating system with reliable software updates.
One of the disadvantages of using Linux is that there is no standard edition which is confusing for first-time users. Windows, being more widely known and used has no shortage of technical support. Linux users will find a lack of tech support and will have to rely on Linux community support.
Linux is used by many professionals and companies. Linux developers, IT systems administrators, Linux support engineers, software engineers, technical support, and Kernel administrators use the open-source operating system.
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