I can remember when Linux started making waves. Netware was still king, and Windows was a laughable me too runner in the network world. The big argument at the time wasn't if the operating system was worth playing with, it was how do you pronounce the damn name.

Working as a consultant I had to keep abreast of all changes in the technical world, and Linux was no different. I can remember the first time I installed it and thus began the learning of all the Linux jargon.

Having worked to productionalize several ATT Linux installations, I was familiar with the basic commands and the structure of the kernal. What I wasn't familiar with was the customization that Linux allowed.

After my introduction to Linux, I had no reason to use it for many years. As I watched it grow from the sidelines I was in awe of how so many people, hackers, gave of themselves and contributed to the operating system. Sure, many of them hacked through stuff to meet their own needs, but many others did it for the love of the community.

As Linux grew it was put up against Microsoft Windows in a standoff that approached good versus evil. It was humorous to watch, but this artificial animosity was a springboard for further Linux development.

Today, Linux still has some rough edges, but the many distros find a niche for almost anyone wanting to feel the Linux love.  

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