LinuxGids: a practical guide for Linux users

Many people have vaguely heard of it, but few know exactly what it is: Linux. It’s an open source operating system that has existed for decades and runs on millions of devices worldwide. Yet it remains relatively unknown to the general public. Why is that?

Simple: most people use Windows or macOS, because that’s what came pre-installed on the laptop or desktop they bought. Linux usually has to be installed manually, and for many that’s a barrier. But what often gets overlooked is that Linux is now embedded in nearly everything: from your Android phone to the smart thermostat on the wall, from the servers that power websites to media players and car navigation systems. Of the top 500 fastest supercomputers, all 500 run on Linux. So it’s actually everywhere — just not in plain sight.

That hidden nature is exactly what makes it so interesting and powerful. Linux is flexible, secure, and maintained by a global community of developers. You can use Linux with a graphical desktop environment, just like with Windows or macOS. But with Linux, you have complete freedom to choose your own desktop. To really get the most out of Linux, though, you do need some basic knowledge.

Linux Nijmegen: sharing knowledge since 2012

To bring people in the Nijmegen area together around this topic, Peter Martin has been organizing Linux User Group meetups since 2012: Linux Nijmegen. These gatherings are meant for sharing knowledge, exchanging experiences, and gaining more control over using Linux and open source software.

The Linux Nijmegen website regularly receives questions from people looking for help or support. Understandably so — Linux is powerful, but not always intuitive. Still, Linux Nijmegen was never meant to be a helpdesk. Instead of simply solving problems for people, we want to help them understand how Linux works. Because knowledge is power, especially in the open source world.

New: LinuxGids.nl — a practical guide for Linux users

To still offer something to people who are just getting started or who get stuck, Peter Martin launched a new initiative in June 2025: LinuxGids.nl. This website offers an overview of commercial service providers, open source communities, and Linux-related events where you can find support or knowledge as a Linux user.

Get involved

Are you interested in Linux, open source, or just curious about what’s possible outside the big tech companies?
Then come to a Linux Nijmegen meetup sometime.

Looking for Linux support? Take a look at LinuxGids.nl.
Do you know any companies that offer Linux support? Or open source communities or events that might be interesting for Linux users? Please let me know via the contact form on LinuxGids.nl.

We believe in freedom, privacy, knowledge sharing, collaboration, and self-reliance. That’s exactly what Linux is all about.