Happy 17th birthday, Linux!

Happy belated 17th birthday, Linux! On Oct. 5, 1991, Linus Torvalds created the Linux kernel and launched a free operating system that powers many of the world’s most powerful computers today. First scorned as the unreliable work of hobbyists, Linux, with its low cost and flexibility, has become a key component of data centers. With access to its open source code, users can adapt the software to their specific business requirements, which many consider a key advantage. Linux is increasingly used to run mission-critical applications as well as Web servers, and it’s giving Microsoft Windows a run for its money. The Linux Journal celebrated the birthday with a nostalgic retrospective. It’s worth a look.

Happy Birthday, Linux!