Linux Basics: The Command Line Interface

This course will introduce you to Linux, a powerful operating system used by most professional developers!

Why add Linux to your C programming skills? Most people use Linux without knowing it! Whether you use a smartphone, search the web, or use an ATM, each time Linux is involved somewhere in the background. It is the most used operating system for embedded devices and high-performance servers. It is also the most common operating system used by developers to create software applications.

In this course, you will learn the history of Linux and how its open source community was able to create today’s most advanced operating system. You will navigate the file system, use fundamental Linux commands and master the Linux command line interface. These are essential skills for every developer.

You will also be able to produce software written in C using the industry-standard tools on Linux.

We are excited to introduce you to Linux and guide you along your path to becoming a skilled user of this powerful operating system!

At the end of this short course, you will reach the sixth milestone of the C Programming with Linux Specialization, unlocking the door to a career in computer engineering.

Your job Outlook:

- Programmers, developers, engineers, managers, and related industries within scientific computing and data science;

- Embedded systems such as transportation, utility networks, and aerospace;

- Robotics industry and manufacturing;

- IoT (Internet of Things) used in smart homes, automation, and wearables.

- IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization for the advancement of technology, ranks C as one of the top programming languages of 2017 in demand by employers. (Source: IEEE Spectrum)

This course has received financial support from the Patrick & Lina Drahi Foundation.

What's inside

Syllabus

Welcome

Let's get coding!

Week 1: History of Linux and the command line

By the end of Week 1, you will be able to describe the background, key dates, and important people of the creation of Linux projects, UNIX, and C. You will also be able to run commonly used pre-installed programs on Linux via the command line interface.

Week 2: The Linux file system

By the end of Week 2, You will be able to navigate through the Linux Filesystem with the command line interface. You will also be comfortable working with files and in directories using the following skills: creating, deleting, copying, renaming, and moving.

Week 3: C program compilation with gcc

By the end of Week 3, you will be able to inspect the memory consumption of processes using the Linux common line interface (CLI), as well as build interactive programs for the CLI in the C programming language. You will also be able to evaluate the average CPU consumption, distinguish between compilation and interpretation of programs, and run/compile a program written in C on Linux.

Concluding the course

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Explores Linux, an industry-standard operating system for developers

Develops skills in navigating the Linux file system, using fundamental Linux commands, and mastering the Linux command line interface

Taught by Petra Bonfert-Taylor and Rémi SHARROCK, experienced instructors in the field

Provides a strong foundation for beginners in Linux and C programming

Belongs to the C Programming with Linux Specialization, offering a comprehensive learning path

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Linux Basics: The Command Line Interface - 6 with these activities:

Organize and review course materials

Show steps

Ensures that all course materials are well-organized and easily accessible for effective learning

Browse courses on Organization

Show steps

Gather all course materials, including notes, assignments, and readings
Organize the materials into a logical structure
Review the materials regularly to reinforce understanding

Seek guidance from experienced C programmers or Linux users

Show steps

Provides access to individuals who can provide personalized guidance and support throughout the course

Browse courses on Mentorship

Show steps

Identify potential mentors in your network or online communities
Contact and introduce yourself to the mentors
Regularly schedule meetings or ask questions via email or messaging

Review Unix commands using an emulator

Show steps

Refreshes skills required to navigate the command line and use common commands necessary for tasks in this course

Browse courses on Unix Commands

Show steps

Download and install an emulator or virtual machine software
Install a Linux distribution on the emulator or virtual machine
Open a terminal window and practice using basic Unix commands

Five other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all eight activities

Follow a tutorial series on using Linux for software development

Show steps

Provides step-by-step guidance on setting up and using Linux for software development tasks commonly encountered in this course

Browse courses on Linux

Show steps

Find a tutorial series on using Linux for software development
Follow the steps in the tutorial series
Ask questions in the tutorial's discussion forum or online communities if needed

Work through exercises in an online C programming tutorial

Show steps

Provides opportunities to apply and improve C programming skills specifically to tasks common to this course

Browse courses on C Programming

Show steps

Find an online C programming tutorial
Work through the exercises in the tutorial
Review the solutions to the exercises

Attend a workshop on Linux command line tools

Show steps

Provides an immersive experience to learn and practice using Linux command line tools essential for this course

Browse courses on Linux

Show steps

Find a workshop on Linux command line tools
Register for and attend the workshop
Participate in the hands-on exercises and discussions

Solve code review problems on C programming

Show steps

Provides opportunities to apply and improve C programming skills specifically to tasks common to this course

Browse courses on C Programming

Show steps

Review the syntax and semantics of C programming
Find a list of code review problems online or in a book
Solve the problems by yourself or with a partner

Build a small C program from scratch

Show steps

Builds on concepts from the course and allows for hands-on application of skills learned in the course

Browse courses on C Programming

Show steps

Design and plan the program
Write the code for the program
Test and debug the program

Career center

Learners who complete Linux Basics: The Command Line Interface - 6 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Software Developer

A Software Developer is reponsible for designing, developing, and testing software applications. Software Developers may have a specialization in desktop, mobile, or web development. This course can help you develop the skills necessary for this role, such as understanding the Linux file system, using the command line interface, and writing C programs.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Computer Programmer

A Computer Programmer writes, reviews, and tests code for software applications and systems. This role works with the Software Developer to implement and refine software products. You can build the skills you need to be a Computer Programmer by taking this course, which covers the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Computer Systems Analyst

A Computer Systems Analyst is responsible for analyzing an organization's computer systems and procedures, then developing plans to improve them. This professional may also be responsible for installing and maintaining software and hardware systems. This course can be useful as it will teach you the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, which are all commonly used by Computer Systems Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst

Web Developer

A Web Developer is responsible for the design and development of websites and web applications. This role may also be responsible for the maintenance and updating of websites. This course can help prepare you for this role by providing foundational knowledge of the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, which are all commonly used by Web Developers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Systems Administrator

A Systems Administrator is responsible for the installation, configuration, and maintenance of computer systems. This role may also be responsible for developing and implementing system policies and procedures. This course will help you prepare for this role by covering the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, all of which are commonly used by Systems Administrators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Network Administrator

A Network Administrator is responsible for the installation, configuration, and maintenance of computer networks. This role also works with network hardware and software to ensure that networks are running efficiently and securely. This course provides foundational knowledge for the role, as it will teach you the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, all of which are commonly used by Network Administrators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst is responsible for protecting an organization's computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. This role may also be responsible for developing and implementing security policies and procedures. You can prepare for this role by taking this course, which will teach you the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, all of which are commonly used by Information Security Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Database Administrator

A Database Administrator is responsible for the installation, configuration, and maintenance of database systems. This role works with database software and hardware to ensure that data is stored, organized, and retrieved efficiently. The skills learned in this course can be helpful for this role, such as the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Robotics Engineer

A Robotics Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and testing of robots. This role may also be responsible for the maintenance and repair of robots. This course may be useful in preparing for this role, as it provides foundational knowledge of the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, all of which are commonly used by Robotics Engineers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer

Technical Writer

A Technical Writer is responsible for writing technical documentation, such as user manuals, white papers, and training materials. This role may also be responsible for developing and implementing technical writing standards. This course may be useful in preparing for this role, as it provides foundational knowledge of the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, all of which are commonly used by Technical Writers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Information Technology Manager

An Information Technology Manager is responsible for the planning, implementation, and management of an organization's information technology systems. This role may also be responsible for developing and implementing IT policies and procedures. This course may be useful in preparing for this role, as it provides foundational knowledge of the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, all of which are commonly used by Information Technology Managers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Technology Manager

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to help organizations make informed decisions. This role may also be responsible for developing and implementing data analysis techniques. This course can be helpful in preparing for this role by providing foundational knowledge of the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, all of which are commonly used by Data Analysts.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Software Architect

A Software Architect is responsible for the design and architecture of software applications and systems. This role may also be responsible for developing and implementing software development methodologies. This course may be useful in preparing for this role, as it provides foundational knowledge of the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, all of which are commonly used by Software Architects.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Architect

Systems Engineer

A Systems Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and testing of complex systems. This role may also be responsible for the maintenance and repair of systems. This course may be useful in preparing for this role, as it provides foundational knowledge of the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, all of which are commonly used by Systems Engineers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Engineer

Embedded Systems Engineer

An Embedded Systems Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and testing of embedded systems. These systems are typically used in a variety of devices, such as cars, medical devices, and industrial equipment. This course may be useful in preparing for this role, as it will teach you the Linux file system, C programming, and the command line interface, all of which are commonly used by Embedded Systems Engineers.

See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Systems Engineer