Linux Solutions

As the popularity of the Linux operating system began to grow, it soon became obvious that there would need to be some form of central point to ensure the code was developed in the correct fashion, and all source code made available to the masses. The merger of Open Source Development Labs (OSDL) and the Free Standards Group (FSG) brought about the Linux Foundation. So what is the role of the Foundation?

In simple terms the Linux Foundation promote, protect and standardise use of the Linux source code in order that the code is able to compete with commercial competitors. While this is something of a simplified version of their full role, there is a lot more work goes on behind the scenes.

The Linux Foundation hold an annual “get together” at which point those involved in the Linux environment will sit down and chat about their thoughts and hopes for the future. These brain storming sessions, together with the array of speeches by prominent players in the industry, have fostered something of a Linux community, a community which has worked closely for some years (even prior to the merger which formed the Foundation).

The Foundation, in unison with the Foundation members, has also put together a massive database of devices which are compatible with the Linux operating system. This service gives members the chance to not only update comments on certain products but also see at a glance which devices are compatible with Linux.

The Linux Foundation is a major part of the Linux movement and with the support of major players such as Red Hat they are now central to the progression of the industry. It will be interesting to see if the commercial profile of the Foundation, and the code itself, change as the popularity of Linux continues to grow.