What do I do with Linux?

I heard that programmers use Linux for programming and compiling. First, Why do they have to use Linux?


Second, Could you tell me the difference between a good compiler and a bad one?


Third, I know how to program with C++ and I am going to learn Java and Python. Any suggestion?


Fourth, What kind of programs do Programmers use?


Thanks

What do I do with Linux?
Nobody HAS to use Linux. That's the beauty of it. They use it because it is fun to tinker with, they can mess with the code if they want, they can improve upon it, and it is free.
Reply:I can only speak for myself, but I prefer to program in linux because I prefer the text editor emacs over any text editor out. I have more control over the editor than I do with any other text editor out there plus it lines up everything for me so I dont have to push "tab" a thousand times when I'm writing code.





Most people who use linux do so because it is command line based as opposed to a GUI, such as windows. Most hard core programmers prefer to type out what they are doing rather than using some jazzed up window, that may or may not work depending on how the operating system feels at the moment.





The difference between a good and bad compiler is a matter of opinion. For example, for me I prefer jdg in linux for debuging JAVA programs where others may prefer using something like Eclipse to debug their JAVA code.





If you are going to learn JAVA and you already know c++ then you should have no problem picking up JAVA.





Again, I can only speak for myself on what programs I use (and I assume you mean for programming). I simply use emacs for just about everything, and of course the debuggers and compilers.
Reply:Below link could answer why linux ?





I don't think there is something called good %26amp; bad for compilers....Well each programmers use compilers based on his programming language....





Good, learning java...could be best idea....you can also learn java web service along with it. Python could b useful for web propgramming too...





Its upto programmer %26amp; based on the requirement of application he is wrtting.