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1.2.2. The Open Source Movement and Linux
The difference between free software and open source can be defined as the difference between a social move- ment (free software) and a development methodology (open source). Linux refers to the kernel, or the backbones of the open source architecture.
In August 1991, Linus Benedict Torvalds, a Finnish second-year student of computer science at the University of Helsinki, started working on Minix.
Nice to Know:
Figure 1.1. Linus Benedict Torvalds
Minix is a UNIX-like OS built with open source code that Prof. Andrew S. Tanenbaum created with the intention to teach his students the internal processes of an OS.
Linux was initially designed to be a Minix-like operating system that Linus Torvalds could use on his home computer. By mid-September, Torvalds released the first Linux kernel version 0.01. In 1994, Linux kernel version 1.0 was released under the GNU GPL. The free kernel and GNU tools provided a fertile environment for enthusiasts. By staying close to its UNIX roots, Linux provided a Command Line Interface (CLI) first; the adaptation of the X Window System made a graphical user interface (GUI) available at a later stage.
Linux is not owned by any individual or company, not even Linus Torvalds who started Linux.
However, Torvalds is heavily involved in the main kernel development process and owns the trade- mark, Linux.
Linux open source code:
• Is available and accessible to everyone
• Can be customised according to an individual's requirements and the platforms used
• Can be freely redistributed in its current or a modified form
Initially, Linux was a very technical, hard core open source programming tool. Thousands of developers con- tributed to its evolution as it became more user friendly. This has resulted in the launch of hundreds of commer- cial and non-commercial distribution versions, designed for everyday application use which are now available.
In 1998, Jon "maddog" Hall, Larry Augustin, Eric S. Raymond, Bruce Perens et al formally launched the Open Source Movement. They promoted open source software exclusively on the basis of technical excellence.
Figure 1.2. Founders of the Open Source Movement
The open source movement and the dot.com boom of the late 1990s coincided, resulting in the popularity of Linux and the evolution of many open source friendly companies such as Corel (Corel Linux), Sun Microsystems (OpenOffice.org) and IBM (OpenAFS). In the early 21st century when the dot.com crash was at its peak, open source was in a prime position as a viable alternative to expensive proprietary software. Its momentum has strengthened since with the availability of many easy to use applications.
As such, what started off as an idea became a passion to revolutionise a patent and license intense industry. With a significantly cheaper return on investment and enhanced usability features, Linux is now rooted as a viable option for enterprises and home users.