Without proficiency in Linux, I likely wouldn’t have progressed far in the tech industry. Linux has always occupied a peculiar position when compared to Windows or macOS. While debates continue over which of the two—Windows or macOS—is superior, Linux is often excluded from the conversation, largely due to its limited support for mainstream software. Moreover, many still associate Linux users with hackers or niche tech enthusiasts.
These assumptions are misguided. Those who regard Linux as inferior to the Windows–macOS duopoly overlook a vital truth: Linux users possess a unique versatility. They are adept with an operating system that forms the backbone of the modern digital world—powering everything from servers to cybersecurity infrastructure.
Proficiency in Linux not only enhances employability but also distinguishes individuals in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
This is my story.
The beginning:
When I first installed Ubuntu 16.04 (Xenial Xerus) in 2016, I had little idea what to do with it. At the time, although the Ubuntu desktop was reasonably functional compared to Windows or macOS, it still lacked support for many essential software applications, such as Microsoft Office and Adobe Photoshop—the list went on.
I couldn’t make much productive use of it initially. However, my employer at the time encouraged us to pursue the LPIC certification, which focuses on Linux systems. Looking back, studying for the LPIC profoundly reshaped the way I interacted with Linux and ultimately enabled me to master it at a much deeper level.
Commandlines:
When I first began learning Linux, everything revolved around the command line. I still remember the moment I watched a YouTube tutorial on navigating the Linux file system—it was a turning point in my life. Until then, I had only ever used Windows’ graphical interface to interact with a computer. But executing a simple cd command to change directories, followed by ls to list the files in my home directory, completely transformed my understanding of technology.
I was captivated. I loved the terminal’s black screen—it made me feel like a real hacker. I relished the ability to interact with the system through direct command input. Yet, even then, I was merely scratching the surface of what Linux had to offer.
What does it mean to learn Linux?
Recently, Linux has become more accessible than ever, particularly in terms of desktop distributions. There is now a wide range of options available, including Ubuntu, Linux Mint, Fedora, Arch Linux, and Asahi Linux. In many ways, using a Linux desktop is no more complex than switching from Windows or macOS. The differences in graphical user interfaces are more a matter of nuance than of skill, so familiarizing yourself with a Linux desktop doesn’t necessarily require a steep learning curve.
That said, as previously mentioned, Linux desktops still lack support for many major software applications when compared to the other two dominant platforms. As a result, these distributions may only serve to confuse general users. However, for those who are proficient with professional-grade applications commonly used in real-world business environments, the situation is quite different.
The real Linux education:
By default, Linux functions as a server operating system. Even desktop variants can be repurposed for server use, though this is relatively uncommon in everyday scenarios. From the moment you begin using Linux, you’re able to dive into programming and scripting languages such as Shell, Python, and C/C++.
If a particular language or development tool isn’t already installed, you can easily add it. For example, to install Java on Ubuntu, you can use the following commands:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install openjdk-17-jdk -yThis merely scratches the surface of what Linux has to offer. In the professional world, many robust applications and tools are routinely managed and deployed on Linux systems—such as MySQL, Oracle SQL, DBeaver, WinSCP, and more. In my own experience, familiarity with just two or three of these tools was often sufficient to manage most tasks effectively.
This highlights a common misconception: many consumers overlook Linux’s unparalleled pervasive role in the technological ecosystem. Because it lacks visibility on the client side, people often dismiss it as an obscure or unproductive operating system. The irony, of course, is that much of the modern world’s technology infrastructure is powered by Linux.
Unbeatable in shell:
Let’s shift gears and talk about my journey with Shell scripting—a powerful form of programming that strings together multiple Linux commands into cohesive, automated workflows. It’s a discipline that not only demands foundational programming knowledge but also a deep understanding of Linux commands, system behavior, and the very essence of the operating system.
In a world where most people gravitate toward Windows or macOS, being a Linux user often feels unconventional. Yet, ironically, it’s precisely this kind of “unconventional” path that can lead to remarkable, unforeseen opportunities—ones that many aren’t even aware exist.
From the moment I adopted Linux as my daily driver, I began shaping my tech life through the command line on my Ubuntu laptop. Each day, I typed countless commands—managing systems, solving problems, and when necessary, writing scripts to automate routine tasks, often scheduling them with cron.
Then came 2023. At my previous job, I was handed a monumental task: to write a vast collection of scripts to automate critical Linux server operations. No one believed it could be done—not within the constraints we had.
But I did it.
Because Linux had become second nature to me—woven into my daily habits—I was able to breathe it, live it, and deliver what others thought impossible. In life, there are rare moments when your quiet preparation meets opportunity, and suddenly, your once-hidden skills are revealed in full force, leaving others in awe.
I call these my daily rituals. Ultimately, we become what we repeatedly do. Our capabilities define us professionally. And when your professional skill set aligns with your personal passion—even your hobbies—you become unstoppable.
That was my defining Shell moment.
It was, without question, my Linux moment.
Conclusion:
Have you ever seen the movie Limitless? In it, there’s a fictional drug called NZT-48. Once the protagonist, Eddie, takes the pill, he instantly transforms into a super-genius—capable of solving complex problems, authoring books, and even launching a political campaign for New York City mayor.
When I reflect on my “Linux moment” in 2023, I often draw a parallel between myself and Eddie. In that chapter of my life, I experienced something extraordinary—becoming the kind of professional no one else on the team could match. My skills were unquestioned. My contributions, undeniable.
That period wasn’t just a technical milestone; it was a personal transformation. Linux gave me the platform to push boundaries, to rise above expectations, and to realize a version of myself I hadn’t fully seen before.
Linux holds a special place in my life—and always will.
Last but not least…
To share my Linux expertise, I wrote and published a book on Amazon. In it, I provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to build your own home server—which can also function as a personal NAS.
What makes this book especially useful is its focus on creating a seamless tech ecosystem at home, particularly for Windows and Android users. Whether you’re a beginner or someone looking to deepen your technical skills, this guide is designed to be both practical and accessible.
The book has already made sales in the U.S. and other countries. If you’re interested, I invite you to take a look. Thank you for your support!