Should I Learn Linux?

Linux represents freedom to use your computer as you wish. When you learn it, you can customize it to your preference. There’s no limit to what you can do with it, whether for playing or working. If you’re still on the fence, you might be wondering whether Linux is worth learning or not.

Linux is an in-demand skill. Learning Linux will help you land a better job because employers are always looking for skillful Linux administrators. The virtue of learning Linux is preparing you for coding, networking, automation, cloud computing, mobile app development, and much more.

Today, Linux is exploding in popularity. But should you learn or ignore it? Here’s why you should and shouldn’t learn Linux with some resources if you decide to learn it.

Why You Should Learn Linux

Here are some reasons to learn Linux in 2021.

Linux Is A Highly-paid Skill

In the 2000s, Linux administrators could get a tech job with their eyes closed. Combine Linux with a stack of other skills, and you were virtually guaranteed a high-salary position in networking, cybersecurity, and IT.

It remains true today and well into the future. Why? Because many companies depend on this skill. The number of available jobs might fluctuate, but you can always find a Linux-related job available to you.

Most Servers Use Linux

According to recent statistics, Linux powers 95% of the servers that run the world’s top 1 million domains. Even the creator of Windows uses Linux in developing Microsoft Azure services.

If you’re developing software, you’ll need to learn Linux. It’s the gold standard in any server-related work. Whether it’s software for cloud or web environment, Linux will always be present.

Linux Is Open-Source, Free, And Credible

Today, most companies recognize Linux as the go-to operating system for all IT work. You can also get Linux certifications, which will help you get a job quickly, even in a competitive market. These certifications come from respected establishments recognized worldwide.

Linux has a vast community that’s always working on developing new tools and patching bugs. Due to its open-source nature, anyone can work on improving the whole system for everyone. And you’re never out of community support.

While some bad apples plague the community, as you’ll see later, the community around Linux is one of its core strengths.

Furthermore, Linux is free to install and use without the need to pay for licensing. The Linux terminal gives you direct access to the core system, so you can edit it to suit your needs. You’ll be using it to give commands to the system, which will provide valuable insight into how it operates on a fundamental level.

It Makes Work Fun

If you learn Linux with Python, you can do a lot of fun stuff. The Linux environment is highly customizable, and with some imagination, you can use it to automate daily tasks.

Linux also doesn’t put limits on your creativity. So, you can create apps that millions of people use or participate in solving challenging problems. You can also volunteer to help others solve their problems and learn something in the process.

Why You Shouldn’t Learn Linux

The picture wouldn’t be complete without knowing the drawbacks of learning Linux. To make an informed decision, here are some reasons you shouldn’t learn Linux.

The Linux Master Race Cult

You probably heard about Apple fanboys. Linux also has its fanboys. But it’s not irrational love for a brand. It’s a full-blown superiority complex.

Linux gives so much power to its users. Perhaps, that’s why some of them have formed a cult around it and started treating everyone else as an inferior life form.

If you’re going to learn Linux, you’ll meet some of those people. And they might make you regret the decision.

Gaming Isn’t An Option

Most gaming brands develop their games for Windows since it’s the dominant operating system. While you can install Steam on Linux and access more than 4,060 games, but your favorite might not be one of them.

If the game developer doesn’t support Linux, you can’t play their games.

Hardware And Drivers Are Hard To Find

Again, most software developers primarily create for Windows. It means you won’t be able to run your hardware to its full capacity.

The Linux community is responsible for developing codes for hardware. And they’re necessary professionals. And you won’t get regular updates on time.

You might even need to learn how to develop them yourself. That’s a major drawback because you don’t get to use your hardware to its fullest potential with Linux.

It all depends on whether the hardware company is open-source-friendly. Hint: Many aren’t.

List Of Best Books To Learn Linux

You shouldn’t learn Linux when all you want from your computer is browsing the internet, checking your email, and playing games. In that case, it’s best to stick with Windows or macOS.

Linux on its own won’t do you any good. However, it’s part of the bigger picture. It’s a tool that IT professionals use daily.

So, it makes sense to learn how to use this tool. You can totally self-learn Linux, but enrolling in a course can shorten the time. Most of all, be careful around toxic Linux cult followers.

Here is the list:

The Linux Command Line: A Complete Introduction by William E. Shoots Jr.
Linux Command Bible 3e by Richard Blum
Command Line Kung Fu: Bash Scripting Tricks, Linux Shell Programming Tips, and Bash One-liners by Jason Cannon
Linux for Beginners: An Introduction to the Linux Operating System and Command Line by Jason Cannon
Linux Administration: A Beginner’s Guide, Eighth Edition by Wale Soyinka
Linux: The Complete Reference, Sixth Edition by Richard Petersen
Linux Pocket Guide: Essential Commands by Daniel J. Barrett

Conclusion

Linux is spreading like fire in technical circles. If you’re planning to take any IT job, you’ll run into Linux sooner or later.

If you’re going to code in Python, manage servers, or build network infrastructure, learning Linux is a must. If you’re planning for any computer-related career, you’ll most likely need to learn Linux.