Simply put, a Linux Server is a free, open source operating system used and shared by free web hosts. Often utilisedby large businesses, Linux Servers can effectively process masses of data and electronic information such as network administration, database storage and worldwide communication systems.
Every server available today has been tailored and designed by a specific group of individuals to meet certain requirements, such as database storage or online communication. This system is then shared with others across the globe and, if it proves a success, it continues to develop and be updated as long as there are people using it.
Of course, the other important thing to keep in mind when looking at the benefits of Linux Servers is that the vast majority of them are completely free to download and update. This means you can download any you fancy at any time and experiment with it without draining your bank account.
There is a lot of choice when deciding on a Linux Server, with a number of different versions available to download for free, such as Fedora, Debian, Ubuntu Server, CentOS and Slackware. Each one is designed for a specific set of functions and so choosing the right one for you is the first and most important step. Here are just a few examples of the Linux Servers available to download for free at the moment:
Ubuntu Server
This is a user-friendly operating system that has been designed with you in mind. Interaction with the system is straightforward and easy-to-follow, with updates made on a regular basis. It also offers different levels of software to meet your needs; Essential, Standard and Advanced. Each one is tailored to reflect the demand of the user, so for example, if you just want it for common workloads such as email and web use, the Essential system would be ideal for you. If you require something more complex that can handle multiple tasks effectively, then opting for the Advanced system would be your best bet.
Debian Server
Debian comes with more than 37,500 packages, covering everything from editing and emailing documents, to web-browsing and playing games. It is updated on a regular basis by its developers and therefore has a long running time without the need to debug or reboot. Because of the sheer number of packages available on Debian, it is a popular choice with those looking to tailor their system to meet specific requirements.
Slackware Server
The principle behind Slackware is this; keep it simple. It was developed to be streamlined in all ways, giving it very user-friendly system design. This ‘open-book’ interface allows users to see precisely what is going on behind the scenes of their operating system and helps them to develop it as required. Like most other Linux Servers, Slackware can be modified and adapted to match the requirement of its user and there is an online group dedicated to providing support and updates should you need them.
