Linux Logo

Linux LogoLinux Logo PNG

The recognizable Linux logo, accompanying the entire family of operating systems, is represented by a colorful mascot, reflecting the developer’s passion. The comical image of the Linux logo symbolizes the system’s friendliness, accessibility, and ease of configuration.

Linux: Brand overview

Founded:September 17, 1991
Founder:Linus Torvalds
Headquarters:
U.S.
Website:kernel.org
Linux is an operating system belonging to Unix-like computer platforms and is based on the eponymous kernel. It is a development by Linus Torvalds, which was launched by his team in 1991.

Meaning and History

Linux Logo History

The official mascot of the OS and the company working on it is a stylized penguin named Tux. Moreover, the logo with it exists not in one but in several versions, each of which is used depending on the situation. In all of them, the penguin is depicted in different variations.

Although the operating system appeared in 1991, talks about creating a unique logo began five years later. All proposals, which were an incredible number, were carefully discussed. Some of them echoed the names of other brands or parodically repeated IT symbols.

The choice continued until Linus Torvalds, the developer of one of the key components of the Linux system, mentioned in a conversation with someone that he likes penguins. He also added that during his stay in Australia, one of them even bit him. It was then that the vector of the logo search became clear.

Larry Ewing created the debut version of the emblem in 1996. Paradoxically, until that time, none of his versions had passed the competitive selection, and there were three. However, ultimately, this work became the mascot of the company.

What is Linux?

It is a family of operating systems that appeared in 1991 based on the Linux kernel. They are used for personal computers, mobile devices, servers, and specialized computers.

1996 – today

Linux Logo 1996-present

The logo depicts a penguin on a white background. It is executed in a strict style. The bird sits, stretching its legs forward, and looks intently at something. The beak resembles a real one; later, it will be depicted as a triangle. The animal’s face has a benevolent expression, emphasizing the friendliness of the operating system. This version is still relevant.

2005 – 2008

Linux Logo 2005-2008

In 2005, an attempt was made to replace the mascot with a clumsy and funny one, executed in a parodic form. In this form, it lasted three years. The emblem depicted a fat penguin with strangely drawn eyes as if he didn’t understand something. This is evidenced by the wings spread in different directions as if the bird is shrugging in bewilderment.

2008 – today

Linux Logo 2008-present

In parallel with the debut logo, work is being done on a modern version, where the penguin looks awkward and perplexed: it stands with spread wings and bulging eyes. The designer used a cartoonish drawing style, so instead of paws, the bird has two yellow ovals.

Linux: Interesting Facts

Linux is a super important type of computer software that many gadgets and big computers use worldwide. Here’s why Linux is a big deal:

  1. How It Started: Linus Torvalds created Linux in 1991 as a student in Finland. He wanted to create something similar to Minix, another computer system, but Linux became much bigger and is used worldwide.
  2. The Name: “Linux” comes from the main part Linus made, called the kernel. It was almost called “Freax,” but instead, they named it Linux, which sounds a bit like Linus, and Unix, which is another computer system it’s kind of like.
  3. Free for Everyone: Linux can be used, changed, and shared by anyone for free, leading to many different versions that meet all needs.
  4. Different Versions: There are so many versions of Linux, like Ubuntu and Android for phones. They help computers and phones do all sorts of things.
  5. Supercomputer Star: The biggest and fastest computers in the world run on Linux because it’s stable and powerful.
  6. Penguin Mascot: Linux has a penguin mascot named Tux. Linus Torvalds picked a penguin because he was bitten by one once! “Tux” stands for Linus’s project and Unix.
  7. Everywhere You Look: Linux isn’t just on computers. It’s in phones, TVs, and even the International Space Station. It’s everywhere!
  8. Many Helpers: Thousands of people and big companies like IBM and Google constantly help improve Linux.
  9. Not Just for Computers: Linux is also used in smaller gadgets like internet routers and smart home devices because it’s flexible and free.
  10. Lots of Help: One of the best things about Linux is the huge group of people who use and improve it. There’s a lot of help online for anyone who wants to learn about it or solve a problem.

Linux started as a small project and has become a key part of how digital stuff works today, showing how cool and powerful sharing and working together can be.

Font and Colors

Linux Emblem

The key element of the corporate logo is the penguin. It faces us and, depending on the version, is drawn sitting or standing. The bird’s eyes are large – either joyful, surprised, or puzzled. In one of the versions, there is also a semblance of a smile.

There are several interpretations of the mascot’s name, which has become the main element of the emblem. James Hughes, who proposed the nickname Tux, stated that it comes from the merger of several jests and is an acronym: (T)orvalds (U)ni(X). Users suggest that it is a shortened version of the word “tuxedo,” because penguins look like they are wearing tuxedos and tailcoats.

Linux Symbol

The word sign is not the main part of the emblem: it may consist only of the penguin and contain no inscriptions. But when it is used, it is executed in a non-standard serif font. The first letter is uppercase; all others are lowercase. The classic palette of the logo is a combination of warm yellow, white, and black colors. They signify happiness, intelligence, and enthusiasm.

Linux color codes

GainsboroHex color:#dcdcdc
RGB:220 220 220
CMYK:0 0 0 14
Pantone:PMS Cool Gray 1 C
Dim GrayHex color:#696969
RGB:105 105 105
CMYK:0 0 0 59
Pantone:PMS 424 C
BlackHex color:#000000
RGB:0 0 0
CMYK:0 0 0 100
Pantone:PMS Process Black C
SandstormHex color:#e9d750
RGB:233 215 80
CMYK:0 8 66 9
Pantone:PMS 7404 C
GoldenrodHex color:#d2a403
RGB:210 164 3
CMYK:0 22 99 18
Pantone:PMS 124 C

FAQ

What Does the Linux Logo Represent?

The Linux logo does not contain inscriptions. It only features the main symbol of the operating system – the penguin. It is depicted in a cartoonish 3D style. Additionally, the artists gave it disproportionately large eyes.

What is Linux Used For?

This operating system is often used for web servers, switches, routers, automotive infotainment platforms, household appliances, phones, and much more.

Why Does Linus Have a Penguin?

The developer of the operating system, Linus Benedict Torvalds, suggested using a penguin as the symbol of Linux. He explained this by saying that in a zoo, a little penguin bit him, and since then, he has been suffering from “penguinitis.”

What is the Linux Mascot?

The penguin named Tux is the only mascot of Linux.