Regarding the “background layer” in Photoshop

Question

I'm referring to the layer "Background" that is automatically created. What's the purpose of this layer? Will I loose some functionality if I duplicate it and remove the original?

I feel this layer is very limited in comparison with "normal" layers; you can't apply layer styles or change layer properties.

Thanks.

Answer

Think of that layer as the actual 'image'. That is a simplification, but it serves a point. If you duplicate it, feel free to remove it. Or you could just drag the lock-icon to the trash-icon and edit the background layer directly. I usually duplicate the background layer and do my sharpening on the duplicated layer, so I can go back, reduce the sharpening and such without going back in my editing history. I like it that way.

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