Linux is an open-source operating system known for its stability, security, and flexibility. It supports multiple hardware platforms and is widely used for servers, desktops, and embedded systems. Linux allows users to modify and distribute its code, making it highly customizable. It offers various distributions, such as Ubuntu, CentOS, and Fedora, each catering to different user needs. Linux is favored by developers, system administrators, and businesses for its performance, reliability, and active community support. It’s commonly used in cloud computing, software development, and network management.