Ask the Expert

Q: Is it true that the operating system’s correct name is GNU/Linux?
A: That depends upon whom you ask. Those with the GNU Project, having worked long and
hard to create the tools that make an operating system useful (utilities, compilers, and
applications), want their diligence recognized. Because nearly all “Linux” systems consist
largely of GNU tools and the Linux kernel, this isn’t unreasonable. On the other hand, many
people feel that GNU/Linux is too awkward to use as the primary name for an operating
system. In any event, the choice is up to you: Linux or GNU/Linux, it’s all good.

Q: Linux is Red Hat, right?
A: Red Hat’s Linux distribution is very popular, especially in the United States. However,
many other excellent distributions exist, and none has the exclusive rights to Linux. I
use Red Hat Linux, and presumably the reason you’re reading this guide is so that you
can use it, too. But once you become more comfortable with Linux, you can create your
own distribution if you desire. The freedoms provided by the GPL allow you to
customize and even sell Linux if you wish.

Q: Why do I have to pay for “free” software?
A: The short answer is you probably don’t. Red Hat is one of many Linux distributions
that allow free download, so if you have a high-bandwidth Internet connection, you
can slurp down the files, burn some installation CDs, and install the software without
paying one red cent. Many distributions are available on CDs from third parties who
charge less than $5 each. Some people prefer to pay for support or to buy boxed
versions of the software, either to support the company whose product they use, or to
ensure that they get timely answers to their questions. Free Software does not mean
you’re entitled to have it without paying for it, but it does mean that if someone is
entitled to have it, they can give it to you if they wish.