< GNU/Linux
GNU/Linux / Name edit (Category edit)
[–] Category:GNU/Linux / Name
Aliases: GNU/Linux / Naming, GNU/Linux / Naming conventions
When I really want to be technically correct, I will say GNU/Linux. I believe that is the correct name for the operating system. (Linux itself is “just” the kernel — albeit a very important part of the OS.)
When it’s okay to call it Linux
However, oftentimes it is convenient to have a shorter name by which to refer to this OS. In those times, I think it is okay to just call it “Linux”. As long as it’s clear from context that you’re referring to the whole OS and not just the kernel.
I mean, what else are you going to call it, if you want a short name? There’s really no other decent alternative, and this shorthand name is pretty much ubiquitous.
And when talking to someone who is not terribly computer literate (or at least not very literate in matters GNU/Linux), it’s not really worth it to correct everyone everywhere and to be pedantic about the “correct name”. Maybe some of the time I’ll be pedantic about this, but not always…
The problem of some things being common to all or most unices
Actually, that’s not really a “problem” — it’s a good thing, most of the time — but it just means that we have to settle the issue of how to refer to this class of operating systems that includes not only GNU/Linux, but also *BSD, Unix, and Mac.
Possibilities:
- “Unices”
- “Unix-like operating systems”
- “Unixen”
http://www.google.com/search?q=unices
http://www.linux-foundation.org/en/OpenPrinting/Database/DatabaseIntro. Retrieved on 2007-05-11 11:18.
This database includes basic specifications for printers and details of how to make them go under normal unices that can run Ghostscript and/or filters like pnm2ppa. GNU/Linux, the BSDs and Mac OS X typify this category; users of other commercial unices can usually benefit from this information as well. The information here is not (very) useful for Windows users.
An alternative to Unices: “Unixen”: Linus (1996-04-15). Unices are created equal, but … (http://www.ussg.iu.edu/hypermail/linux/kernel/9604/1414.html). Retrieved on 2007-05-11 11:18.
Personally, I _want_ linux to be faster on everything, but when it comes to real life, I’d say that _any_ of the Free UNIXen are “fast enough”.