ASL STEM

Definition

a freely distributed UNIXcompatible operating system for PCs and a number of other processors. Linux was developed by Linus Torvalds and others and is distributed under terms similar to those of Gnu’s “copyleft” (see GNU). Copies can be given away free provided they are complete and intact, but most users prefer to purchase commercially produced CD-ROMs containing Linux together with application software. Linux is quite reliable and highly compatible with UNIX; as a result, it is very popular with universities, Internet service providers, and small businesses that need multi-user computing at minimum cost. More information can be found on the World Wide Web at www.linux.org.

Source: Downing, Douglas, et al. Dictionary of Computer and Internet Terms. 10th ed. New York, 2009. Print.