What Are the Advantages of a Linux-based OS for Developers?
If you follow the word on the street like we do, Linux never stopped being the go-to OS for serious, seasoned front-end, full-stack, and back-end freelance developers. No one denies that open source operating system Linux has the power, speed, security offerings, and interface to command all of your to success.
But exposure to different systems early on in your career may have made you more loyal to one over another. However, data shows that many enterprise organizations run on Linux. Building your skills in Linux creates higher compensation opportunities, as well as project opportunities.
Here is a look at what Linux does best, and how these give you an advantage as a developer now-and down the road.
Linux Vs. Windows
Why do developers prefer one OS over another? The reasons are varied, but do include a level of familiarity with one system over another. Therefore, many schools and universities offer Windows OS, simply because it comes on laptops, and is compatible with the software they use.
Developers also choose Windows OS because the operating system is the most widely used around the world. While the Linux-based OS license remains free, Windows OS licensing can be an expense, in addition to paid software tools, such as security tools, and Microsoft 365. If you're getting started as a freelance developer, Linux distributions today are also competitive for user-friendly interfaces and development.
A Linux-based OS is powerful, reliable, and highly secure. From data science, to research servers, home smart devices, to game development, Linux is becoming an increasingly adopted OS for enterprise business, big data, and AI applications.
Pop!_OS on premium hardware is a Linux-based OS that offers a user-friendly interface for developing all your applications to run in any environment.
AI Applications Require a Linux Skill-Set
In the next few years, you can anticipate that clients and organizations will require strong developer AI skills. Whether you're a front end, back end or full stack freelance developer, building your skills on a Linux-based OS will keep you competitive.
Many developers prefer the Linux operating system for AI development, machine learning, as well as for supercomputing systems. These require a large amount of data processing, which Linux can handle. From storage, data training, and deployment, Linux-based OS offers a smoother, more reliable data and application transfer for running machine learning programs.
Linux Supports Most Programming Languages
While every popular OS uses C language, the advantage of working on a Linux OS is that it supports an array of languages for greater flexibility. To name a few, Linux supports the following languages:
- C C++
- Python
- Node JS
- PHP
- Java
- Ruby
- Rust
- D
- Go
- Perl
Linux OS is a flexible system, which is better for scaling your development projects, from gaming apps, to deep learning AI services.
Be Where Your Clients Are: Linux Supports Many Programs and External Devices
As a freelance developer, it's important to work within the environments your clients are using for their projects and products. Developing and deploying on a Linux-based OS could increase your job and project opportunities. Many technologies run on Linux, including:
- Smart TVs
- Game servers
- IoT devices
- Web servers
Well-reviewed media center software runs on Linux. So, too, do self-driving cars. Because of its versatility, it can run on almost any type of hardware, it works with many drivers, and can even revive an old netbook. Developers generally appreciate that Linux can run on almost anything, making it a requisite OS to work in for client projects.
Premium Hardware with Premium Linux Distribution Puts You In Control
HP Dev One comes with Pop!_OS pre-installed on our powerful HP hardware. The Ubuntu-based OS is a comprehensive, out-of-box solution for you as a developer on-the-go.
A Highly Secure Sandbox Environment
Flatpak also comes out-of-box with the Dev One, and offers you the ability to run application software in isolation. You won't have to worry about Flatpack security specifically because it maintains applications in isolation.
Quality Updates for New Linux Kernel and Drivers
Pop!_OS is built to be nimble and user-friendly. New Linux kernel updates are released when we're sure it has passed comprehensive quality checks, for true top performance.
The advantages of Linux-based OS point toward a future where most developers will need some level of proficiency on it to best serve clients and employers. HP Dev One Laptop gives you the edge to support all your current and future work, for the way you want to work.
