Cygwin is a free and open source program that creates a UNIX-like environment on a Windows computer, allowing access to Windows features while providing a UNIX-like GUI. It is mainly used by programmers and supported by Red Hat.
Cygwin is a Microsoft® Windows program that replaces the standard Windows shell with one that closely resembles a UNIX® machine. The program is officially designated as UNIX®-like as it is based entirely on Windows rather than a standard UNIX® build. Cygwin allows the user to have full access to Windows features, applications and services; it just changes the environment used to access it. This program is free and open source.
The user interaction interface on a computer goes by many different names. In most cases, it’s called a graphical user interface (GUI). This is the common name for programs like Microsoft® Windows or Mac OS. These programs have pictures and images that make up most of the screen; in general, the only text is labels and user-entered information.
A less common, but more technical name is shell. A shell is a computer program that wraps itself around a process to allow users to interact with it. In the case of operating systems, a shell wraps itself around the computer kernel, giving access to low-level functions.
Some computer systems contain emulators. When these programs are run, they create an environment similar to another system; then, other programs run within that environment. For example, Mac OS runs an emulation system that allows it to use some Windows-based software. The emulator essentially tricks the program into thinking it’s where it’s supposed to be.
Cygwin shares many of the features of a GUI, shell, and emulator, but it’s none of the three. Cygwin creates a UNIX®-like environment on a standard Windows computer. It’s more of an emulation, but less of a full operating system. Create a shell that encompasses your computer hardware and most of the Window functions. Finally, it provides a UNIX®-like GUI for interacting with the machine and installed applications.
This program is mainly used as a programmer interface. The mix of Windows and UNIX® features allows programmers to access important features while still being able to run many Windows applications. While it has uses outside of programming, they are much less common due to some speed and compatibility issues present in Cygwin.
Cygwin is an open source program widely supported by Red Hat®. Open source programs are free to any user interested in using them. The source code of the program is available in case someone wants to make additions or modifications to the base code. In addition, Red Hat® offers paid incentives to programmers interested in creating major changes or major new program features.
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