To calm your fears that “free” software can’t be that good, this book guides you through the strange and circuitous path of open source software development that led to the Linux phenomenon. It also details the major companies and organizations that are behind Linux and the open source movement today. Along the way, you learn how you can become part of the open source and free software communities, whose stars are known by a single name (such as Linus) or a few initials (such as rms). You’ll find a staggering number of open source projects, forums, and mailing lists that are thriving today (and always looking for more people to get involved).