Linux Basics: The Command Line Interface from edX

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.

Within moments you will be coding hands-on in a new browser tool developed for this course, receiving instant feedback on your code. No need to install anything!

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” Professional Certificate program, unlocking the door to a career in computer engineering.

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

What's inside

Learning objectives

Situate on a timeline the key dates of unix and linux creation
Use basic commands to control the linux operating system
Navigate and manipulate the linux filesystem using the command line interface

Manage the memory and processes running on linux
Compile and execute a c program on linux

Situate on a timeline the key dates of unix and linux creation
Use basic commands to control the linux operating system
Navigate and manipulate the linux filesystem using the command line interface
Manage the memory and processes running on linux
Compile and execute a c program on linux

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces Linux, the most used operating system for embedded devices, high-performance servers, and developers, to learners at the beginner level

Designed as the sixth milestone of a 'C Programming with Linux' program, offering a clear path towards computer engineering careers

Taught by Petra Bonfert-Taylor and Rémi Sharrock, experts in Linux systems and programming

Key learning outcomes include the history of Linux, controlling the operating system with basic commands, managing files and processes, and writing and compiling C programs on Linux

Involves practical, hands-on exercises in a browser-based coding environment, providing instant feedback

Suitable for learners with a background in C programming who seek to enhance their understanding of Linux and its applications in development

Reviews summary

Solid linux command line course

Learners say that this course offers a clean and simple way to get started with the Linux command line without having to do any local installation. It's a great option for beginners and those new to Linux.

This is an introductory course aimed at beginners.

"Great course for beginners: you don't have to install anything and play directly with the linux commande line."

"Like all the courses of the serie C Programming with Linux, this one is a good start to get familiarity with the Linux command line."

No prerequisites are required.

"Great course for beginners: you don't have to install anything and play directly with the linux commande line."

"Like all the courses of the serie C Programming with Linux, this one is a good start to get familiarity with the Linux command line."

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 with these activities:

Join a Linux user group

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Connect with fellow Linux enthusiasts and expand your knowledge through group discussions.

Browse courses on Linux

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Search for local or online Linux user groups
Attend meetings and participate in discussions
Share experiences and learn from others

Review Unix command references

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Refresh your knowledge of essential Unix commands to prepare for practical terminal navigation in Linux.

Browse courses on Unix Commands

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Retrieve the Unix command manual pages for review.
Review command flags and arguments
Practice using the commands in a command-line environment

Read 'Unix and Linux System Administration Handbook' by Evi Nemeth

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Gain a comprehensive understanding of Unix and Linux system administration through this authoritative reference.

View UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook on Amazon

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Review the book's chapters on Linux fundamentals and system administration
Explore the book's practical examples and case studies
Apply the concepts and techniques to your own Linux environment

Four other activities

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Follow online tutorials on advanced Linux topics

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Enhance your skills by exploring advanced Linux topics through guided video tutorials.

Browse courses on Linux

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Identify areas where you want to deepen your knowledge
Find reputable online tutorials on those topics
Follow the tutorials and implement the techniques

Build a simple text-based application in C

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Apply your C skills to create a functional application, solidifying your understanding of the language.

Browse courses on C Programming

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Plan the application's functionality and user interface
Write C code to implement the application's logic
Compile and test the application

Contribute to open-source Linux projects

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Gain practical experience and contribute to the Linux community by participating in open-source projects.

Browse courses on Linux

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Identify a suitable open-source Linux project to contribute to
Review the project's documentation and codebase
Propose and implement improvements

Mentor junior learners in C and Linux

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Reinforce your knowledge while supporting others in their learning journey in C and Linux.

Browse courses on C Programming

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Share your knowledge and experience in a peer study group or online forum
Provide guidance on C programming concepts and Linux command-line
Review and provide feedback on code and projects

Career center

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

Software Developer

As a Software Developer, you will design, develop, test, and maintain software applications. You will work with both front-end and back-end technologies, and will need to be familiar with a variety of programming languages and operating systems. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for software development. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as a Software Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Web Developer

As a Web Developer, you will design and develop websites and web applications. You will work with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and will need to be familiar with a variety of web development frameworks and tools. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is the most popular operating system for web development. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as a Web Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Database Administrator

As a Database Administrator, you will be responsible for the management and maintenance of databases. You will need to be familiar with a variety of database management systems, and will need to be able to troubleshoot and resolve database issues. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is the most popular operating system for database management. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as a Database Administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Systems Administrator

As a Systems Administrator, you will be responsible for the management and maintenance of computer systems. You will need to be familiar with a variety of operating systems, networking protocols, and security measures. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for systems administration. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as a Systems Administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Administrator

Network Administrator

As a Network Administrator, you will be responsible for the management and maintenance of computer networks. You will need to be familiar with a variety of networking protocols and technologies. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is the most popular operating system for network administration. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as a Network Administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Administrator

Computer Security Analyst

As a Computer Security Analyst, you will be responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from security threats. You will need to be familiar with a variety of security tools and techniques. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for computer security. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as a Computer Security Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Security Analyst

IT Manager

As an IT Manager, you will be responsible for the management of an organization's IT infrastructure. You will need to be familiar with a variety of IT technologies and management practices. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for IT management. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as an IT Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Manager

Information Systems Manager

As an Information Systems Manager, you will be responsible for the management of an organization's information systems. You will need to be familiar with a variety of information systems technologies and management practices. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for information systems management. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as an Information Systems Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Systems Manager

Project Manager

As a Project Manager, you will be responsible for the planning, execution, and completion of projects. You will need to be familiar with a variety of project management methodologies and tools. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for project management. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as a Project Manager.

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Business Analyst

As a Business Analyst, you will be responsible for analyzing business needs and developing solutions. You will need to be familiar with a variety of business analysis techniques and tools. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for business analysis. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as a Business Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Data Analyst

As a Data Analyst, you will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. You will need to be familiar with a variety of data analysis techniques and tools. This course will help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for data analysis. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills will be essential for your success as a Data Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Financial Analyst

As a Financial Analyst, you will be responsible for analyzing financial data and making investment recommendations. You will need to be familiar with a variety of financial analysis techniques and tools. This course may help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for financial analysis. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills may be essential for your success as a Financial Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Marketing Manager

As a Marketing Manager, you will be responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns. You will need to be familiar with a variety of marketing techniques and tools. This course may help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for marketing. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills may be essential for your success as a Marketing Manager.

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Sales Manager

As a Sales Manager, you will be responsible for managing a sales team and achieving sales goals. You will need to be familiar with a variety of sales techniques and tools. This course may help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for sales. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills may be essential for your success as a Sales Manager.

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Human Resources Manager

As a Human Resources Manager, you will be responsible for managing a company's human resources department. You will need to be familiar with a variety of human resources laws and regulations. This course may help you build a strong foundation in Linux, which is one of the most popular operating systems for human resources management. You will learn how to use the Linux command line interface, navigate the file system, and manage memory and processes. These skills may be essential for your success as a Human Resources Manager.

See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager