Learn Linux - Full Course Walkthrough

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive walkthrough of essential Linux concepts and commands based on the "Learn Linux - Full Course Walkthrough" video. By following these steps, you will gain the skills needed to navigate Linux systems confidently, manage files, set permissions, and utilize powerful command-line tools.

Step 1: Understand Terminals and Shells

• A terminal is a user interface for accessing the shell, which interprets commands.
• Common shells include Bash, Zsh, and Fish.
• To open a terminal:
  • On Ubuntu: Press Ctrl + Alt + T.
  • On macOS: Open Spotlight with Cmd + Space, type "Terminal," and hit Enter.

Practical Tips

• Familiarize yourself with basic commands like pwd (print working directory), ls (list files), and cd (change directory).

Step 2: Navigate the Filesystem

• Understand the Linux filesystem structure:
  • / is the root directory.
  • Common directories include /home, /etc, /var, and /usr.
• Use the following commands to navigate:
  • cd <directory> to change directories.
  • ls to list files.
  • mkdir <directory> to create a new directory.
  • rmdir <directory> to remove an empty directory.

Common Pitfalls

• Remember that Linux is case-sensitive. Be careful with file and directory names.

Step 3: Manage Permissions

• Permissions determine who can read, write, or execute files.
• Use ls -l to view permissions.
• Change permissions with chmod:
  • chmod u+x <file> to add execute permission for the user.

Explanation of Permissions

• Permissions are displayed as rwx for user (owner), group, and others.
  • r stands for read, w for write, and x for execute.

Step 4: Work with Programs

• Install packages using a package manager:
  • For Debian-based systems (like Ubuntu), use apt.
    • Example: sudo apt install <package-name>.
  • For Red Hat-based systems, use yum or dnf.

Practical Advice

• Regularly update your package list with sudo apt update.

Step 5: Handle Input and Output

• Use redirection to manage input/output:
  • > to redirect output to a file (e.g., echo "Hello" > hello.txt).
  • >> to append output (e.g., echo "World" >> hello.txt).
  • < to read input from a file (e.g., sort < unsorted.txt).

Use of Pipes

• Use the pipe | to pass output from one command to another.
  • Example: ls -l | grep "txt" to filter and list only text files.

Step 6: Manage Packages

• Learn to install, update, and remove software packages effectively.
• Use apt commands for Debian-based systems as mentioned earlier.
• Regularly check for updates to keep your system secure.

Conclusion

By mastering these steps, you will become proficient in using Linux and its command-line tools. Start practicing these commands and explore more advanced topics as you grow comfortable with the basics. Consider enrolling in a full Linux course for deeper insights and hands-on experience.