The creator of Linux not only revolutionised operating system development, but also had a profound impact on the web and on how we develop and consume technology today. In this article, we’ll take a look at Torvalds’ journey and understand why his legacy is so important for companies and web development professionals.

Linus Torvalds and Linux

Linus Benedict Torvalds was born on 28 December 1969 in Helsinki, Finland. From an early age, he showed an interest in computers, starting to programme as a teenager. Torvalds studied at the University of Helsinki, where he first encountered Unix systems — an experience that would change the course of his career and, consequently, the world of computing.

In 1991, dissatisfied with the limitations of the Minix system (a Unix-based system for educational purposes), Torvalds decided to create his own operating system kernel. The project began as a hobby but quickly gained traction when Linus shared the code online and invited other programmers to collaborate. Thus, Linux was born: an open source operating system, free and accessible to all. What made Linux special was its collaborative development model. Unlike proprietary systems, Linux allowed anyone to contribute, fix bugs and suggest improvements. This open source philosophy became a global movement, inspiring thousands of projects and communities.

Torvalds’ Impact on Computing

Linux quickly became the preferred operating system for servers, supercomputers, mobile devices (such as Android), and even for web development. Today, over 90% of the world’s web servers run Linux, including giants like Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Netflix. The system is known for its stability, security and flexibility — essential characteristics for any modern digital infrastructure.

In addition to Linux, Torvalds also created Git, a distributed version control system (DVCS) that is fundamental for collaborative software development. Git is now the backbone of platforms such as GitHub and GitLab, which have revolutionised the way web development teams work and share code.

The Legacy of Linus Torvalds on the Web

Torvalds’ impact goes far beyond the Linux kernel. Thanks to his work, the web has become more open, secure and innovative. The open source model has encouraged knowledge sharing and accelerated technological evolution. For web development companies, this means access to powerful tools, active communities, and the freedom to create bespoke solutions without the restrictions of proprietary software.

Linux is present in virtually all web servers, cloud computing platforms, automation systems, and even at the core of modern web applications. Without Torvalds’ contribution, the web as we know it — open, scalable, and collaborative — would be very different.

Linus Torvalds is an example of how passion for technology and knowledge sharing can transform the world. His legacy is visible in every website, application, and online service we use daily. For anyone working in web development, understanding the importance of Linux and open source is essential for innovating and building the future of the web.

After all, as Torvalds himself said: “Talk is cheap. Show me the code.”