Create Python Linux Script to Generate a Disk Usage Report from Coursera

There are many choices when it comes to writing scripts on Linux. The bash shell script has been a popular choice, since the bash shell itself is a programming language and the commands used in the script match the syntax of the shell. Python is becoming increasingly popular for scripting on Linux because of its simple syntax, easy access to Linux system commands, and powerful libraries with which to create reports, for example. In addition, Python can be used in other applications and on multiple platforms, so there is also the benefit of learning one language for many programming requirements.

In this course, you will create a Python script in which you will determine disk space and generate a report on disk usage on an Ubuntu Linux system.

Note: This course works best for learners who are based in the North America region. We’re currently working on providing the same experience in other regions.

What's inside

Syllabus

Python Linux Script to Generate a Disk Usage Report

Linux is a popular operating system that is based on the Unix operating system. It has many distributions which have different interfaces for installing software, different user interfaces, and so on. One thing all of the ‘distros’ have in common is that they all have a command line interface, or terminal. In fact, sometimes there is no user interface except the terminal itself. A Linux server running a web application on AWS, for example, may only contain the software required to run the application, and no GUI ‘window’ system at all. It is crucial to learn the Linux command line if you are going to be a productive Linux user and/or administer a Linux server.In this course, you will use Linux commands to navigate Linux directories, search for files, search for patterns, create files and directories, and remove files and directories.There are many choices when it comes to writing scripts on Linux. The bash shell script has been a popular choice, since the bash shell itself is a programming language and the commands used in the script match the syntax of the shell. Python is becoming increasingly popular for scripting on Linux because of its simple syntax, easy access to Linux system commands, and powerful libraries with which to create reports, for example. In addition, Python can be used in other applications and on multiple platforms, so there is also the benefit of learning one language for many programming requirements. In this course, you will create a Python script in which you will determine disk space and generate a report on disk usage on an Ubuntu Linux system.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches skills in Python scripting for Linux, which are widely used in industry and open-source software development

Suitable for students with no or limited scripting and Linux command-line experience

Provides students with hands-on experience in creating a Python script to generate disk usage reports

Can be used as a stepping stone for further learning in Python scripting and Linux command-line tools

Covers core concepts of Python scripting, including data types, control flow, and functions

Exposes students to the Linux command-line interface and essential commands for file and directory management

Reviews summary

Python disk usage report script

Learners say this course is a good starting point for new learners or those new to scripting. According to students, the instructor provides good explanations and the material is easy to understand. Those who found this course easy to understand also mention that it's not very in-depth and that the complexity of the libraries was low.

The material is easy to understand.

"Every step is very well explained leaving no doubt about what each line of code is doing, recommended! "

"This project helped rejuvenate my linux knowledge and Python some how."

A good course for new programmers.

"This project was awesome, is a little introduction to scripting using python and is easy to understand the foundational concepts."

"Really simple and beginner-friendly."

"Anyone getting started in Python will find this project fun and interesting."

This course is not very in-depth.

"Nice project to introduce python in scripting area but pretty short."

The complexity of the libraries used was low.

"Complexity of the libraries used should have been more"

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 Create Python Linux Script to Generate a Disk Usage Report with these activities:

Review Python Basics

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Ensure you have a strong foundation in Python before diving into the course materials.

Browse courses on Python Basics

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Review basic Python concepts such as variables, data types, and operators
Refresh your understanding of Python syntax

Review Linux Command Tutorial

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Reinforce your knowledge by reviewing and following along with a Linux command tutorial.

Browse courses on Linux Commands

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Find a tutorial that covers common Linux commands
Review the tutorial
Try the examples in the tutorial

Practice using Linux commands in a Sandbox

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Become comfortable using basic Linux commands by using a sandbox, which will allow you to try the command without harming your computer.

Browse courses on Linux

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Set up a Linux Sandbox
Try examples and experiment with the commands
Create Linux commands based on examples

Two other activities

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Create a Linux Script for a Specific Task

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Create a Python script that uses Linux commands to perform a specific task. This will test your understanding of Linux syntax and scripting capabilities.

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Identify a task that can be automated with a script
Write a Python script using Linux commands
Test your script
Refine and improve your script

Contribute to an Open Source Linux Project

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Experience real-world Linux development and contribute to the community by making a contribution to an open source project.

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Find an open source Linux project to contribute to
Review the project's documentation and codebase
Identify an area where you can contribute
Develop and test your contribution
Submit a pull request

Career center

Learners who complete Create Python Linux Script to Generate a Disk Usage Report will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

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Data Scientist

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Machine Learning Engineer

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Business Analyst

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing skills in Python programming, Linux command line, and scripting. Python is a popular language for software development, and this course will provide hands-on experience using it for this purpose.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts gather, analyze, and interpret data to extract meaningful insights and trends. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing skills in data manipulation, analysis, and reporting. Python is a popular language for data analysis, and this course will provide hands-on experience using it for this purpose.

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Product Manager

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DevOps Engineer

DevOps Engineers bridge the gap between development and operations teams, ensuring that software is developed and deployed efficiently and reliably. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing skills in Python programming, Linux command line, scripting, and system administration. Python is a popular language for DevOps, and this course will provide hands-on experience using it for this purpose.

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Cloud Engineer

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IT Manager

IT Managers plan, implement, and manage IT systems and services. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing skills in Python programming, Linux command line, scripting, and system administration. Python is a popular language for IT management, and this course will provide hands-on experience using it for this purpose.

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Network Engineer

Network Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer networks, including routers, switches, and firewalls. This course can help build a foundation for this career by providing skills in Linux command line, scripting, and network administration. Python is also a popular language for network administration, and this course will provide hands-on experience using it for this purpose.

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Security Analyst

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Systems Engineer

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Artificial Intelligence Engineer

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