An operating system is a program that allows the computer to communicate with the internet and carry out actions. For example, Windows is an operating system found in many common PCs.

But, not all operating systems are the same. For example, some operating systems only allow for certain file types or computers. Some operating systems cost money, some don’t. Some are more stable and better-built than others.

That's where Linux comes in, Linux is part of the “Big Three” operating systems, including Windows, MacOS, and Linux. Linux is often seen as a major alternative to these operating systems as a whole. Linux currently has 4% market share in the operating system space, and is often found on a lot of handheld computers, like the Valve steam deck.