Introduction to Linux

In 1991, Linux was an open-source operating system kernel developed by Linus Torvalds. After various improvements and refining stages, it became a potent operating system with different environments ranging from personal computers to servers and embedded systems. In proprietary operating systems, users receive an invitation to view, modify, and distribute source code under their own terms and in a collaborative development method.

In this blog, we will deep dive into all the essential details about Linux and its top 10 commands. For more detailed info, you can check out this beginner Linux course.

Key Features of Linux

Open Source: Developed via collaboration, free access to source code allows innovation and transparency in Linux.

Multi-User Capability: It allows simultaneous access and usage of more than one user on the system itself without the interference of one user with another. Hence, Linux is an extremely preferred operating system for multi-user environments.

Multitasking: The Linux kernel optimally shares system resources between different tasks, allowing maximum concurrency with the least possible interference with system performance.

Open Source: Building an open-source Linux kernel on different hardware platforms, a Linux installation can be done from PCs to smartphones and embedded devices. 

Security: With strong permission and role attributes, Linux provides an astronomically safe environment for users and their applications.

Advantages of Using Linux

Cost-Effective: Most Linux distributions are free to use. Hence, expensive software licenses become less of an issue.

Stability and Reliability: Linux systems are stable and allow for long uptime without a need for rebooting.

Security: A security vulnerability can be identified and patched almost immediately because of open-source software.

Customizability: A user is free to customize their operating system as per their needs-from the kernel to the user interface.

Community Support: There is a large community of users and developers providing support and all kinds of resources.

Disadvantages of Using Linux

Learning Curve: The command-line interface and system management may seem difficult for some new users.

Software Compatibility: Some proprietary software applications may be unavailable in Linux; others may not be completely compatible.

Hardware Compatibility: Hardware devices may have either no drivers or require extra configuration to get them working on Linux.

Gaming: Despite improvements to Linux gaming, several titles could be missed or not optimized for the platform.

Top 10 Essential Linux Commands

Understanding these fundamental Linux commands will enhance your ability to navigate and manage a Linux system effectively.

1. ls – List Directory Contents

The ls command is used to display the files and directories within the current directory.

ls

• Ls -l: Lists files with detailed information, including permissions, owner, size, and modification date.

• Ls -a: Displays all files, including hidden ones (those starting with a dot).

2. cd – Change Directory

The cd command allows you to navigate between directories.

Cd/path/to/directory

• Cd..: Moves up one directory level.

• Cd ~: Takes you to your home directory.

3. pwd – Print Working Directory

Use pwd to display the full path of the current directory.

pwd

4. cp – Copy Files or Directories

The cp command copies files or directories from one location to another.

cp source_file destination

• Cp -r source_directory destination: Copies directories recursively.

5. mv – Move or Rename Files or Directories

The mv command moves or renames files and directories.

mv old_name new_name

• Mv file /path/to/destination: Moves a file to a different directory.

6. rm – Remove Files or Directories

The rm command deletes files or directories.

rm file

• Rm -r directory: Removes a directory and its contents recursively.

• Rm -f file: Forces deletion without prompting for confirmation.

7. find – Search for Files in a Directory Hierarchy

The find command searches for files and directories based on specified criteria.

Find/path/to/search -name "filename"

• Find-type f -name "*.txt": Finds all .txt files in the current directory and subdirectories.

8. grep – Search Text Using Patterns

. grep searches for patterns within files.

Grep "pattern" filename

• Grep -r "pattern" /path/to/directory: Searches for the pattern recursively in the specified directory.

9. df – Disk Space Usage

The df command displays information about disk space usage on all mounted filesystems.

df -h

• -h: Displays sizes in human-readable format (e.g., MB, GB).

10. top – Task Manager

top provides a dynamic view of system processes.

top

• Press q to quit the top command.

With the increasing usage of Linux, it has become a powerhouse operating system for the benefit of both the users and the organizations. By mastering a couple of commands and understanding its features, Linux can be fully utilized. If you are planning to build a career in IT, sound knowledge of Linux is the stepping stone you need to begin on your journey; Network Kings Linux Training offers just the right foundation.

If you are keen to learn Linux and take your career in IT forward, then Network Kings Linux Training is a good option to consider!

It offers the following:

• 11+ hours of Self-paced Learning Videos by Industry Experts: Learn online at your own pace with self-paced videos created by industry experts. 

• Network kings provides live training by linux experts.

• Certification of Completion: Get a certificate for completing the training.

• 90 Days of Access: You will have a full 90 days' access to the course material.

• Hands-on Labs: Practically learn through real scenarios.

This course is designed specifically for professionals, students studying IT, or anyone interested in technology to pursue a career in Linux system administration.