Linux Users: How Many People Use Linux in 2024?

Have you ever wondered just how many people use the Linux operating system? As an open source platform developed in 1991, Linux has seen massive growth over the past 30+ years to become a backbone of modern computing.

In this in-depth guide, I‘ll share the latest insights into the global use of Linux. You‘ll discover which countries and industries have embraced Linux, how its market share has grown, and what the future holds for one of the world‘s most important software projects.

As an experienced technology writer, I‘ve followed Linux adoption closely over the past two decades. Below I‘ll pull together stats, trends, and examples demonstrating Linux‘s central role across computing – and try to shed light on the actual number of worldwide Linux users today.

Let‘s start with a quick history of how this open source legend evolved.

Brief History of Linux and Main Distributions

It all began in 1991 when 21-year old Finnish student Linus Torvalds started developing a free operating system kernel based on Minix. This kernel formed the core of the fully functioning Linux 0.02 OS released later that year.

Why the name “Linux?” It’s a blend of “Linus” and “Unix.” Torvalds wanted to develop a free alternative to the paid Unix OS.

After the landmark 1.0 release in 1994, Linux saw rapid progress in capabilities and features through the 90s thanks to volunteer developers and vendors adding support.

Some notable releases included:

• 2.0 “Tux” bringing support for multiprocessor systems
• 2.2 “Winner” improving SMP performance
• 2.4 “Pizza” with USB and PC card support

The 2.6 kernel arriving in 2003 represented a major leap forward in Linux adoption. Performance gains made it viable for more mainstream use.

Fast forward to today and Linux underpins a sprawling ecosystem of distributions or “distros” tailored to specific needs:

• Ubuntu – The most beginner-friendly distro ideal for getting started.

• Debian – Prioritizes stability and security. Many distros are based on it.

• Fedora – Backed by Red Hat emphasizing free open source software.

• openSUSE – Packaged with dev tools. Novell and SUSE maintain it.

• Mint – Another easy intro designed to just work out of the box.

• Kali – Penetration testing and security auditing distro.

This diversity enables Linux to flexibly meet uses ranging from servers to desktops to specialized applications.

Now, let‘s explore who specifically uses Linux today.

Current Linux Users – Industries, Organizations, and More

One of the successes of Linux is its adoption across industries and geographies. Let‘s cover some of the main categories of Linux users.

Industry Usage

Within the technology industry, Linux usage is massive:

• Google – Android and nearly all internal infrastructure run on Linux.

• Amazon, Facebook, Twitter – Linux powers the backend infrastructure.

• IBM, Dell, Oracle – Major contributors and Linux-based products/services.

• Chipmakers – Including Intel and AMD develop Linux hardware drivers.

Automotive has embraced Linux for connected cars:

• Toyota, Honda, Mercedes, Hyundai/Kia – Adopted Automotive Grade Linux.

• Tesla – Uses Linux in its Model S/X infotainment systems.

Aerospace and defense contractors use Linux extensively:

• Boeing – Uses Linux for flight planning and avionics.

• Airbus – Deploys Linux across its fleet for ops.

• General Dynamics – Linux integrated into ground control and systems.

Other examples:

• Energy – Shell, BP, ExxonMobil rely on Linux systems.

• Industrial – From Caterpillar to Siemens, Linux drives automation and machinery.

• Telecom – AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and carriers worldwide depend on it.

Government Adoption

Many governmental bodies globally have embraced Linux for enhanced security and controlling costs:

• Russia – Developed the Astra Linux distro specifically for federal use.

• India – Launched BOSS Linux for administration and research.

• Cuba – Created Nova Linux as part of technology independence efforts.

• Turkey – Pardus Linux used for military and governmental needs.

• United States – The Department of Defense issued directives to use Linux where possible.

• Mexico – Switched federal systems and education infrastructure to Linux.

• Brazil – Invested in Linux to reduce software licensing fees.

• European Union – Funded Linux migration across member nations.

Education Initiatives

• MIT – Offers an Ubuntu-based Linux end user environment.

• Harvard – Red Hat Linux powers the root DNS servers.

• Stanford – Students and staff leverage Linux resources.

• Greece – Converted all computer labs at schools and universities to Linux.

• Germany – FSF advocates Linux usage in schools nationwide.

Beyond Industries and Governments

Of course, Linux enjoys broad usage across developer and enthusiast communities:

• Developers – Prefer Linux over any other OS according to all major surveys.

• Science/Research – Linux drives the top 500 supercomputers in the world.

• Gaming – SteamOS brings Linux gaming to the living room.

• Home Enthusiasts – Provide support and development to keep Linux thriving.

So in summary, Linux usage spans across enterprise IT, mobile, embedded systems, cloud infrastructure, government systems, academia, and beyond.

Next let‘s look at estimates of total users worldwide.

How Many People Use Linux in 2024?

Given its open source heritage, getting precise stats on Linux‘s global installed base is difficult. Nevertheless, estimates indicate 3-3.5 billion Linux users worldwide as of 2024.

The majority stem from Android. Google‘s mobile OS leverages the Linux kernel and has over 2.5 billion monthly active devices.

Chrome OS too expands desktop Linux use. Over 40 million Chromebooks run Linux apps natively.

Beyond Google‘s ecosystems, other trends suggest rising Linux adoption:

• 75% of developers favor Linux over other operating systems.

• 90% of cloud workloads run on Linux servers.

• All supercomputers in the TOP500 use Linux.

• 85% of smartphones run Android.

• Enterprise server market share rose from 20% in 2007 to 70% in 2020.

So while Linux claims just 2% of traditional desktop PCs, other estimates paint a picture of nearly ubiquitous Linux usage across other facets of computing.

Of course, quantifying the exact number of Linux users worldwide remains slippery. Yet its presence across critical infrastructure and services means billions interact with Linux-powered technologies daily, even if indirectly.

Now let‘s switch gears and talk about the pros and cons of Linux for the average consumer.

Should You Consider Switching to Linux?

For desktop and laptop users considering Linux over Windows and Mac, there are compelling advantages but also important considerations.

Let‘s compare the key pros and cons of Linux:

Pros:

• Completely free and open source. No cost to install or use.

• Increased security and privacy compared to Windows.

• More stable than Windows. Less prone to crashes and lockups.

• Extremely customizable distros and interfaces. Make Linux your own.

• Huge software repositories with thousands of free apps.

• Lower system requirements than Windows or MacOS.

Cons:

• Steep learning curve vs. Windows/MacOS. Can be confusing for beginners.

• Lack of dedicated tech support compared to paid OSes.

• Smaller app ecosystem still. Not all major apps available.

• More hands-on tinkering often required to optimize performance.

• Hardware compatibility challenges with some printers, Wi-Fi chips, etc.

For many use cases, Linux provides a compelling option. But adjusting to differences from other operating systems does represent a barrier to entry for casual users.

If you‘re intrigued but hesitant about trying Linux on your desktop or laptop, read on for tips.

Making the Switch to Linux – Tips for New Users

Here are my top recommendations if you‘re considering moving to Linux:

• Try popular beginner-friendly distros first like Ubuntu, Mint or Fedora. Don‘t start with Arch or Gentoo.

• Be prepared to Google issues and learn. The community support model differs from conventional tech support.

• Pick desktop environments like KDE, XFCE, etc. that align to your priorities – simplicity, customization, performance.

• Check hardware compatibility or buy Linux-certified devices. Look for “Ready for Linux” models.

• Dual boot Linux alongside your existing OS at first. Keep Windows or Mac for backup.

• Use virtual machines to conveniently test distros and software worry-free.

• Stick with web apps like Office Online until you adjust. Or try FOSS alternatives like LibreOffice.

• Follow Linux tips sites and forums to learn. The community is welcoming to new users.

The transition to Linux rewards patience. But with the right expectations, Linux offers ample capabilities for those willing to embrace it.

The Future of Linux

While already ubiquitous across computing, from supercomputers to smartphones to the cloud, Linux stands poised for even wider growth.

Some trends fueling rising adoption:

• Continued domination in cloud infrastructure and services.

• The Internet of Things market expansion. Linux runs many connected devices.

• High performance computing demands. Linux scales across modeling, simulation, machine learning and other complex workloads.

• Browser-based computing. Technologies like Chrome OS ease more users into Linux.

• Mobile market saturation. As Android plateaus, Linux still ships on 85%+ of new smartphones annually.

• Cost savings over Windows. Linux provides big license cost advantages for businesses.

• Developer mindshare. Talent continues migrating to Linux for modern application development.

Gartner projects the OS market will reach $64 billion in revenue by 2025. In that market, Linux has proven its capabilities across workloads big and small.

As devices get smarter and computing diversifies, Linux stands ready to power additional frontiers. Exciting times are ahead!

Wrapping Up – Linux Adoption Worldwide

From the mainframe era to the age of mobile and cloud computing, Linux has proven one of the most flexible, reliable, and widely adopted operating systems in technology. Today, Linux sits at the heart of consumer gadgets, enterprise services, critical infrastructure and advanced research.

Conservative estimates peg global Linux users to be in the 3-3.5 billion range thanks to Android‘s ubiquity and the growth of cloud-based services. While tracking precise stats remains slippery, Linux clearly claims significant mindshare with developers and relevance across modern computing models.

For consumers debating trying Linux, virtual machines and dual booting provide low-risk mechanisms to dip your toes in the water. The passionate Linux community also stands ready to welcome new users looking to learn the ropes.

As someone who has used Linux for over two decades, I can attest to the enthusiasm and dedication of its contributors. Ongoing support across industries and academia point to a bright future of Linux enabling technology breakthroughs we can‘t even envision today. The next 30 years of Linux promise to be as exciting as the first 30!

I hope this guide gave you useful perspective into the world‘s largest open source software project. Let me know if you have any other questions about Linux adoption trends or getting started. Now go try Linux for yourself!