Amazon began as an online bookseller in 1995 and has since expanded to sell a vast array of products across many categories. Customer tracking and personalized recommendations enhance the shopping experience. Amazon also operates as a marketplace, allowing third-party sellers to sell new, used, refurbished, and auction goods using Amazon's platform. The company's massive technology infrastructure is Linux-based and supports its large databases and e-commerce operations. Amazon leverages low-cost marketing associates and communities to promote its products.