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Linux is a family of open-source Unix-like operating systems[1] based on the Linux kernel, first released on 17 September 1991 by Linus Torvalds.[2][3]
Linux is typically packaged as a Linux distribution, which includes the kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name.
Popular Linux distributions include Debian, Fedora Linux, Linux Mint, Arch Linux, and Ubuntu. Commercial distributions include Red Hat Enterprise Linux and SUSE Linux Enterprise. Desktop Linux distributions include a windowing system such as X11 or Wayland, and a desktop environment such as GNOME or KDE Plasma.
Linux is one of the most prominent examples of free and open-source software collaboration. The source code may be used, modified and distributed commercially or non-commercially by anyone under the terms of its respective licences, such as the GNU General Public License version 2.
Linux also runs on embedded systems, that is, devices whose operating system is typically built into the firmware and is highly tailored to the system. This includes routers, automation controls, smart home technology, televisions, digital video recorders, video game consoles, and smartwatches.
Linux is the leading operating system on servers, as well as all of the world's 500 fastest supercomputers. It is used by around 2.3 percent of desktop computers. Chromebooks, which run the Linux kernel-based ChromeOS, dominate the US K–12 education market.