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Linux Fundamentals

Aspen Olmsted

This course is the first of a series that aims to prepare you for a role working as an information technology professional. In this course, you will be introduced to the Linux operating system. You will learn about the licensing model and several Linux distributions. We will go through some services delivered in the Linux operating system. We will conclude this course by looking at how to search and analyze text using command line tools in the operating system.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Linux Operating System
Welcome to Linux Operating System, the first course of the Linux Fundamentals specialization. By enrolling in this course, you are taking the first step to kick start your career in information technology. In the first week of the course, we will learn about the history of the Linux operating system, its unique licensing model and the major distributions that are available to use. By the end of this module, you will know how to choose a distribution, install it and login to the command line. So, let us get started!
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Introduces industry standard Linux operating system
Covers essential Linux services such as web and database servers
Develops foundational skills in file and directory management
Builds a base for understanding text search and analysis in Linux

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Reviews summary

Foundational linux for it beginners

According to learners, this course is highly suitable for aspiring IT professionals and absolute beginners looking to establish a strong foundation in Linux. It offers clear explanations and an understandable approach, especially for complex topics. The hands-on labs and practical exercises are frequently praised for cementing understanding of command-line tools and file operations. While excellent for novices, some students with prior Linux experience found the content too superficial, wishing for more depth in areas like services and automation. It serves as a great starting point, though further self-study may be needed for advanced application.
Provides a strong starting point for further Linux study.
"Definitely prepares you for deeper dives into Linux."
"Overall, it provided a good foundation."
"This course delivers on its promise of fundamentals, providing a great starting point."
"It's a solid stepping stone for anyone new to the Linux environment."
Labs and exercises effectively solidify understanding.
"The hands-on labs were incredibly helpful and really cemented my understanding of command-line tools."
"The practical exercises helped me a lot."
"The course provided good hands-on experience, which I found valuable for learning."
"While the hands-on portions were helpful, I wish they were more robust for better retention."
The instructor provides highly understandable content.
"The instructor explains complex topics in a very understandable way..."
"I loved the clear explanations and the practical approach."
"The instructor is knowledgeable and the lectures are clear."
"The explanations are generally clear..."
An excellent introductory course for those new to Linux.
"This course is an excellent introduction to Linux! ... especially for beginners."
"As someone completely new to Linux, I found the pace perfect."
"Excellent for beginners! I knew nothing about Linux before this course and now I feel confident navigating the command line."
"A perfect beginner's guide to Linux."
Some modules could benefit from more detailed content.
"Some parts felt a bit rushed, especially the 'Search and Analyze Text' module, which could have used more practical examples."
"I think the part about combining commands for automation was a bit underdeveloped."
"The section on services could be expanded with more real-world scenarios."
May be too basic for experienced learners.
"If you have any prior experience with Linux, you might find it too superficial."
"I was hoping for more depth, particularly in the services and automation sections."
"The depth is lacking for anyone beyond a complete novice."
"If you're looking to learn advanced topics or practical application in a professional setting, this isn't it."

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 Fundamentals with these activities:
Review Linux Distributions and Services
Reinforces your understanding of key Linux concepts
Browse courses on Linux Distributions
Show steps
  • Revisit the course materials on Linux distributions and services
  • Research different Linux distributions and their features
  • Identify the common services provided by Linux systems
Read 'The Linux Command Line' by William Shotts
Provides a comprehensive overview of Linux command line usage
View The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read through the book, focusing on key concepts and commands
  • Experiment with the commands and techniques described in the book
  • Complete the exercises and review questions at the end of each chapter
Follow Linux Installation Guides
Builds your confidence in installing and setting up Linux systems
Show steps
  • Identify a Linux distribution and download its ISO image
  • Follow step-by-step guides to create a bootable USB drive
  • Install Linux on a virtual machine or a spare computer
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Review Basic Linux Terminology
Refreshes your understanding of core Linux commands and concepts
Browse courses on Linux Commands
Show steps
  • Read through a Linux tutorial or guide
  • Practice running basic Linux commands in a terminal
  • Explore the Linux filesystem and its structure
  • Experiment with different Linux shells
Command Line Exercises
Develops your proficiency in using Linux command line tools
Show steps
  • Find a set of Linux command line exercises or problems
  • Attempt to solve the exercises using the command line
  • Check your solutions against provided answers or online resources
Join a Linux Study Group
Fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing among Linux learners
Show steps
  • Find a study group or create one with fellow students
  • Meet regularly to discuss course topics, share tips, and work on projects
  • Participate in group discussions and actively engage with other members
Linux Tutorial for Beginners
Solidifies your understanding of Linux by creating a resource for others
Show steps
  • Plan the structure and content of the tutorial
  • Write the tutorial, covering key Linux concepts and commands
  • Create visual aids or examples to illustrate the concepts
  • Share the tutorial with others and gather feedback
Linux Project: Set Up a Web Server
Demonstrates your ability to apply Linux skills to a practical project
Show steps
  • Choose a Linux distribution and install it on a server
  • Install and configure a web server such as Apache or Nginx
  • Create a simple website or web application
  • Test the website or application and troubleshoot any issues
Contribute to an Open Source Linux Project
Applies your Linux skills to a real-world project and contributes to the community
Show steps
  • Identify an open source Linux project that interests you
  • Join the project's community and learn about its goals and needs
  • Contribute to the project by writing code, documentation, or providing support
  • Collaborate with other contributors and seek feedback on your work

Career center

Learners who complete Linux Fundamentals will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Linux Administrator
This course will help you get started on the path to becoming a Linux Administrator. Linux Administrators are responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of Linux servers. They are responsible for managing users, installing software, and troubleshooting issues. At the end of this introductory course, you will have an understanding of the Linux operating system and be able to log into a Linux server using the command line.
See salaries and explore the career path for Linux Administrator
Data Analyst
The Linux operating system is ubiquitous in the world, and the ability to understand Linux commands is a highly sought after skill for roles like Data Analyst. Data Analysts help build and maintain databases, and it is very likely that the databases they interact with run on Linux servers. By understanding how the Linux operating system and its services work, Data Analysts can more easily upload data, organize files, and retrieve databases.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst
Cloud Architect
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Network Administrator
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IT Support Specialist
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IT Manager
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DevOps Engineer
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Database Administrator
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Web Developer
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System Administrator
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Technical Support Engineer
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Storage Administrator
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Software Development Engineer
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Backup Administrator
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Information Systems Manager
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Reading list

We've selected 11 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 Fundamentals.
Cover image
Beginning Django
Save
Canonical guide to essential Linux commands and tasks, spanning essential commands to networking, filesystems, permissions, and processes.
Beginning Django
Paperback
Check
Beginning Django
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition
Save
Well-regarded, accessible introduction to the Linux command line with explanations, examples, and exercises throughout.
The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition: A Complete...
Paperback
$$
(中文) Linux Command Line Compendium 2nd Edition(Chinese...
Paperback
$$$
The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition: A Complete...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook
Save
Comprehensive guide to Linux administration, covering topics from basic system administration to advanced topics such as security and performance tuning.
UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook
Paperback
Check
UNIX and Linux System Administration Handbook
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
RHCSA Red Hat Enterprise Linux 9 Certification...
Save
Primer for those seeking to administer Red Hat Linux, providing a more focused guide on Linux system administration.
RHCSA Red Hat Enterprise Linux 9 Certification...
Paperback
$$
RHCSA Red Hat Enterprise Linux 9 Certification...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Network Defense and Countermeasures
Save
Provides Linux system administration guidance from installation and package management to advanced networking and security.
Network Defense and Countermeasures: Principles and...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
Advanced Bash Scripting Guide - Volume 1
Save
Will provide you with a deeper understanding of Bash scripting, covering advanced topics such as functions, loops, and error handling.
Advanced Bash Scripting Guide - Volume 1: An in...
Paperback
$$
Advanced Bash Scripting Guide 5.3 Volume 1
Paperback
$$
Cover image
The Software Developer's Guide to Linux
Save
Practical, step-by-step guide that's widely used for introductory training on the Linux operating system.
The Software Developer's Guide to Linux: A...
Paperback
$$
The Software Developer's Guide to Linux: A...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Learning the Bash Shell
Save
Comprehensive guide to the Bash shell that covers beginner to advanced topics like scripting, customization, and troubleshooting.
Learning the bash Shell
Paperback
$$
Learning the bash Shell
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Kubernetes Everywhere
Save
Comprehensive resource for Linux enthusiasts and beginners alike, perfect for reference and study.
Kubernetes Everywhere
Paperback
Check
Kubernetes Everywhere
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Linux in a Nutshell
Save
Pocket reference for various versions of Linux, providing quick access to commands, options, and system administration tasks.
Linux in a Nutshell
Paperback
Check
Linux in a Nutshell
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Sed & Awk
Save
Comprehensive guide to the Sed and Awk stream editors, which are essential tools for text processing in Linux.
sed & awk: UNIX Power Tools
Paperback
$$
(日本語) Sed & awk puroguramingu : UNIX power tools
JP Oversized
$$$
sed & awk: UNIX Power Tools (Nutshell Handbooks)
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
LearnQuest
Instructor
Aspen Olmsted
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a collection called Learning Linux for LFCA Certification. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Securing Linux Systems
  2. Linux Cloud and DevOps
  3. Linux Fundamentals (viewing)
  4. Managing Linux Systems
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Introduces industry standard Linux operating system
Covers essential Linux services such as web and database servers
Develops foundational skills in file and directory management
Builds a base for understanding text search and analysis in Linux
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