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Philip Mallory and Karl Krueger

We have built this course for beginners who have no experience with the Linux system and the command-line interface.

In this course, you'll learn the basics of the command line interface of a Linux server: the terminal and shell (GNU Bash). This course includes an introduction to files and directories in the Linux filesystem.

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Beginners or those without programming experience will gain foundational knowledge of Linux and the command line
Taught by Philip Mallory and Karl Keueger
Provides an introduction to Linux basics including files, directories and the filesystem

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Reviews summary

Solid introduction to linux commands

According to learners, this course serves as an excellent introduction to the Linux command line, particularly for those with zero prior experience. Students consistently praise the clear and easy-to-follow explanations and the natural progression of topics. The hands-on exercises and labs are frequently highlighted as a major strength, crucial for practicing and solidifying understanding. However, multiple reviews note that the course is very basic and only covers the absolute essentials, making it too short or superficial for anyone with even a little prior Linux experience or seeking more advanced topics like scripting or permissions. It reliably delivers a solid foundation but stays strictly at the introductory level.
Integrated labs crucial for understanding.
"Loved the hands-on labs in this course! Being able to practice the commands immediately... is crucial."
"The integrated labs were incredibly helpful for practicing commands immediately after learning them."
"I appreciated the hands-on nature; it's much better than just watching videos."
Ideal starting point for absolute novices.
"This course is an excellent starting point for anyone completely new to the Linux command line..."
"Explained concepts clearly and built up complexity gradually, which was perfect for a beginner."
"I had zero prior experience and found this course made learning the basics really easy."
Covers fundamentals only, lacks depth.
"Good for absolute beginners... My only minor feedback is that it is quite short and doesn't delve into anything beyond the absolute essentials."
"The course content is okay for absolute beginners... However, it's very superficial. If you're hoping to learn anything about scripting... this isn't it."
"Very, very basic. If you've used Linux before, even just a little, skip this. It only covers the absolute introductory stuff."

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 Command Line Basics with these activities:
Review the Linux operating system
Familiarizing yourself with the Linux operating system will make it easier to understand the concepts taught in this course.
Browse courses on Linux
Show steps
  • Read articles and tutorials about Linux basics
  • Watch videos on YouTube or other platforms about Linux
  • Try out a Linux virtual machine or live CD
Review shell scripting basics
You'll need a baseline understanding of shell scripting to fully participate in and get the most out of this course.
Show steps
  • Read through the Linux Shell Scripting Tutorial
  • Complete the first three chapters of the tutorial
Create a cheat sheet of essential Linux commands
Solidify your understanding of key commands by creating your own personalized reference guide.
Show steps
  • List the most commonly used Linux commands
  • Include a brief description of each command
  • Organize the commands into categories
Nine other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 12 activities
Practice using Linux commands
Practicing Linux commands will help you become more proficient in using the command line interface and navigating the Linux filesystem.
Browse courses on Linux Commands
Show steps
  • Use the command line to create files and directories
  • Use the command line to edit files
  • Use the command line to navigate the file system
Create a cheat sheet of Linux commands
Creating a cheat sheet of Linux commands will help you memorize and quickly reference the commands you need.
Browse courses on Linux Commands
Show steps
  • List the most commonly used Linux commands
  • Organize the commands into categories
  • Create a document or spreadsheet with the commands and their descriptions
Explore the Linux command line with guided tutorials
Supplement your learning by following guided tutorials that cover specific Linux command line topics and tasks.
Browse courses on Linux Command Line
Show steps
  • Visit the Linuxize website
  • Choose a tutorial that interests you
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step
Follow a tutorial on setting up a Linux server
Setting up a Linux server will give you hands-on experience with the Linux operating system and its administration.
Browse courses on Linux Server
Show steps
  • Find a tutorial on setting up a Linux server
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step
  • Configure the server according to your needs
Practice using the Linux command line in a sandbox environment
Gain hands-on experience and reinforce your understanding by practicing commands in a safe and isolated environment.
Show steps
  • Create a free account on the TryHackMe platform
  • Select the 'Linux Fundamentals' room
  • Complete the challenges in the room
  • Review the solutions to the challenges
Volunteer at a Linux user group or community
Volunteering at a Linux user group or community will allow you to interact with other Linux users and learn from their experiences.
Show steps
  • Find a local Linux user group or community
  • Attend meetings and events
  • Volunteer to help with projects or activities
Attend a Linux command line workshop
Accelerate your learning and gain insights from experts by attending a structured workshop focusing on the Linux command line.
Show steps
  • Search for Linux command line workshops in your area
  • Choose a workshop that aligns with your skill level
  • Register for the workshop
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate
Read 'The Linux Command Line' by William Shotts
Deepen your understanding of the Linux command line by exploring this comprehensive and highly-regarded book.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the book
  • Read the book thoroughly
  • Complete the exercises in the book
Build a simple Linux script to automate a task
Apply your skills and knowledge by creating a practical project that automates a real-world task.
Show steps
  • Identify a task that you want to automate
  • Write a simple bash script to automate the task
  • Test the script to ensure it works as expected
  • Refine the script based on the test results
  • Document the script for future reference

Career center

Learners who complete Linux Command Line Basics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Systems Administrator
Systems Administrators manage and maintain computer systems. This course provides the foundational skills that beginner Systems Administrators need to succeed. It helps build a foundation in the Linux command line interface and file system. This enables Systems Administrators to manage Linux-based systems more effectively.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts collect and interpret data to help businesses make better decisions. This course provides the foundational skills that beginner Data Analysts need to succeed. It helps build a foundation in the Linux command line interface and file system. This enables Data Analysts to interact with Linux-based systems and manage data more effectively.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers develop, maintain, and improve software systems. This course may be helpful for Software Engineers who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for managing software projects.
Web Developer
Web Developers design, develop, and maintain websites. This course may be helpful for Web Developers who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for managing web servers and deploying web applications.
Cloud Engineer
Cloud Engineers design, deploy, and maintain cloud computing systems. This course may be helpful for Cloud Engineers who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for managing cloud resources.
DevOps Engineer
DevOps Engineers bridge the gap between software development and operations. This course may be helpful for DevOps Engineers who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for managing DevOps pipelines and tools.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. This course may be helpful for Database Administrators who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for managing database servers.
IT Support Specialist
IT Support Specialists provide technical support to users of computer systems. This course may be helpful for IT Support Specialists who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for troubleshooting and resolving technical issues.
IT Auditor
IT Auditors evaluate the security and effectiveness of computer systems. This course may be helpful for IT Auditors who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for auditing Linux-based systems.
Security Analyst
Security Analysts protect computer systems from unauthorized access and attacks. This course may be helpful for Security Analysts who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for investigating and responding to security incidents.
Technical Writer
Technical Writers create and maintain technical documentation. This course may be helpful for Technical Writers who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for writing documentation about Linux-based systems.
Project Manager
Project Managers plan, execute, and deliver projects. This course may be helpful for Project Managers who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for managing project resources and tracking progress.
Product Manager
Product Managers define and manage the development of products. This course may be helpful for Product Managers who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for managing product development pipelines and collaborating with technical teams.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts protect organizations from cyber threats. This course may be helpful for Information Security Analysts who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for monitoring security events and responding to cyber threats.
Network Engineer
Network Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks. This course may be helpful for Network Engineers who want to improve their understanding of the Linux command line interface. The course covers essential concepts such as file management, directory navigation, and shell scripting, which can be useful for configuring and managing network devices.

Reading list

We've selected 26 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Linux Command Line Basics.
Provides in-depth coverage of the Linux command line and shell scripting. It includes chapters on basic commands, file management, networking, system administration, and shell scripting. It comprehensive reference for both beginners and experienced users.
This concise and practical guide provides quick access to information on Linux commands, utilities, and configuration files. It is an indispensable reference for both beginners and experienced Linux users.
Comprehensive guide to the Linux operating system. It covers a wide range of topics, including installation, configuration, package management, and system administration. It valuable resource for both beginners and experienced users.
Concise and practical guide to the Linux operating system. It covers a wide range of topics, including basic commands, file management, networking, and system administration. It valuable reference for both beginners and experienced users.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Linux command line, covering essential commands, file management, shell scripting, and more. It is an excellent resource for beginners who want to deepen their understanding of the Linux command line.
This classic book provides a philosophical and practical guide to using the command line. It is an excellent resource for anyone who wants to improve their command line skills and learn how to use it effectively.
This comprehensive guide to Linux covers a wide range of topics, including system administration, networking, security, and troubleshooting. It valuable resource for both beginners and experienced Linux users.
Tutorial on the Bash shell. It covers everything from basic commands to advanced topics. It great resource for beginners who want to learn more about the Bash shell.
This in-depth guide to Bash scripting covers advanced topics such as functions, arrays, and error handling. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to write complex and efficient Bash scripts.
Classic guide to the UNIX programming environment. It covers a wide range of topics, including the UNIX philosophy, the C programming language, and the UNIX system calls. It valuable resource for experienced programmers who want to learn more about UNIX programming.
Comprehensive guide to software development. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic principles to advanced concepts.
Provides in-depth coverage of Linux device drivers. It covers a wide range of topics, including the Linux kernel architecture, the device driver interface, and the Linux device model. It valuable resource for experienced programmers who want to learn more about Linux device drivers.
Provides a comprehensive guide to embedded Linux systems. It covers a wide range of topics, including the Linux kernel, embedded hardware, and embedded software development. It valuable resource for experienced programmers who want to learn more about embedded Linux systems.
Provides in-depth coverage of Linux kernel development. It covers a wide range of topics, including the Linux kernel architecture, the Linux kernel programming interface, and the Linux kernel development process. It valuable resource for experienced programmers who want to learn more about Linux kernel development.
Provides in-depth coverage of Linux performance tuning. It covers a wide range of topics, including the Linux performance tools, the Linux kernel performance tuning, and the Linux application performance tuning. It valuable resource for experienced system administrators who want to learn more about Linux performance tuning.
Provides in-depth coverage of Linux system programming. It covers a wide range of topics, including the Linux system calls, the Linux system programming interface, and the Linux system programming tools. It valuable resource for experienced programmers who want to learn more about Linux system programming.

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