Linux is bloated, says Linus Torvalds, the respected creator of the Linux kernel. To find out more about what prompted this remark, read the report on Torvalds: ‘Linux is bloated.'

The remark prompted me to think further about Linux and its influence on computing. Of course, when we say "Linux" we usually mean the "Linux operating system," and not just the kernel. In many ways, the surrounding bits are the parts that make the entire Linux experience possible. Still, there is no doubt that the Linux kernel is the vital component that defines the entire Linux ecosystem.

What do I know about Linux?

First of all, let me admit that I am currently a Windows user. You may scoff if you like, but the usual crashes and frustration with Windows aside, it fits the way I compute--so I keep on using it.

Have I ever used Linux? Certainly. I've tried earlier iterations of Ubuntu, as well as various Debian and Redhat distributions, among others. I've also worked from the Linux command line to set up web, database and email services, and yes--also an Internet router cum firewall for my home network. Understand that the last instance occurred back in the days when you couldn't just buy a $50 "broadband router" device off the shelf.

Many roads start from Linux

So what's the big deal about Linux, you may ask? Well, the truth is the computing landscape would be vastly different today without the Linux kernel. It is arguably the catalyst--and also the host--to a large array of open-source projects ranging from web to database servers. Indeed, the modular and open-source nature of Linux kernel meant that parts that are not required can be let out at the compilation stage--or custom code added to support custom features.

The result is that the Linux kernel is used in more hardware devices today that you can imagine. This might range from broadband routers, thin clients, or even the controlling OS for a security camera.  In fact, I know that the Yoggie Gate Keeper Card Pro ExpressCard appliance also runs off the Linux kernel. Indeed, its footprints can even be felt as far as cloud computing, with Google itself being said to have been created off from a modified Linux kernel. And yes, the Amazon EC2 platform uses Linux as well.

How do you use Linux?

Unfortunately, an in-depth discussion as to the merits of the Linux kernel would be way beyond the scope of this commentary. What I am curious about though, would be how your organization has leveraged Linux in your operations, or maybe even created a product around it. Unorthodox or just plain quirky uses, I want to hear about them.

Feel free to add a comment here, or drop me an email directly. I'll do a round-up on this topic later this week if there are sufficient responses. - Paul