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Linux Command Line Basics

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

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Familiarizing yourself with the Linux operating system will make it easier to understand the concepts taught in this course.

Browse courses on Linux

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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

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You'll need a baseline understanding of shell scripting to fully participate in and get the most out of this course.

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Read through the Linux Shell Scripting Tutorial
Complete the first three chapters of the tutorial

Create a cheat sheet of essential Linux commands

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Solidify your understanding of key commands by creating your own personalized reference guide.

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List the most commonly used Linux commands
Include a brief description of each command
Organize the commands into categories

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Practice using Linux commands

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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

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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

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Creating a cheat sheet of Linux commands will help you memorize and quickly reference the commands you need.

Browse courses on Linux Commands

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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

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Supplement your learning by following guided tutorials that cover specific Linux command line topics and tasks.

Browse courses on Linux Command Line

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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

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Setting up a Linux server will give you hands-on experience with the Linux operating system and its administration.

Browse courses on Linux Server

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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

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Gain hands-on experience and reinforce your understanding by practicing commands in a safe and isolated environment.

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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

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Volunteering at a Linux user group or community will allow you to interact with other Linux users and learn from their experiences.

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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

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Accelerate your learning and gain insights from experts by attending a structured workshop focusing on the Linux command line.

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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

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Deepen your understanding of the Linux command line by exploring this comprehensive and highly-regarded book.

View The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition on Amazon

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Purchase or borrow the book
Read the book thoroughly
Complete the exercises in the book

Build a simple Linux script to automate a task

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Apply your skills and knowledge by creating a practical project that automates a real-world task.

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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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cloud Engineer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for DevOps Engineer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Support Specialist

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Auditor

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Security Analyst

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

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.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

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.

Linux All-In-One For Dummies

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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.

Linux Command Line Basics

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Save this course

Reviews summary

Solid introduction to linux commands

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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