The primary purpose of the Linux operating system is to provide a stable, secure, and flexible platform for running various applications and services. Linux, being open-source, allows users to modify and customize the operating system as needed. It powers everything from personal computers to servers and embedded systems, making it highly versatile. Linux is known for its strong community support and extensive repositories of software. It is preferred in environments where security, performance, and reliability are paramount, such as server infrastructures and cloud computing.