In recent years, Linux has evolved significantly, shedding its image as a system solely for tech-savvy hackers, characterized by complexity and a steep learning curve. Today, Linux has become a user-friendly platform, accessible to anyone, and it can be installed for free on virtually any PC. While you can perform most tasks in Linux through a graphical interface, having a basic understanding of terminal commands remains essential to fully harness its potential.
Linux’s evolution has made it just as user-friendly as Windows or macOS, and it’s a viable choice for all types of users. To make the most of this versatile operating system, here are four essential Linux commands that every user should know:
- APT – The Package Manager:
- “apt,” the successor to the classic “apt-get,” is a vital tool that every Linux user should be familiar with. It serves as the default package manager for Ubuntu and many other Linux distributions.
- Basic commands:
sudo apt install [program_name]– Install a program and its dependencies.sudo apt remove [program_name]– Uninstall an installed program.sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade– Update software lists and install new versions of programs.sudo apt update && sudo apt dist-upgrade– Update Ubuntu to the latest version.
- CD and LS – Navigating Files:
- Like MS-DOS, you can use the Linux terminal to navigate the directory tree.
- Use the “cd” command to change directories, either with absolute paths (starting from the root, /) or relative paths within the current directory.
- The “ls” command lists all files and folders within a directory. Add parameters like “-a” (show hidden files), “-l” (detailed information), or “-R” (view subdirectories) for more details.
- TOP – The Linux Task Manager:
- Linux has processes and daemons that run in the background. The “top” command serves as the basic Linux task manager, providing an overview of all processes, memory usage, and resource consumption.
- To end processes, use the “kill” command to terminate them by ID, or “killall” to end them by name.
- Commands for File Management:
- The terminal is a swift tool for creating, copying, moving, and deleting files and folders. Essential commands include:
touch file– Create an empty file named “file.”mkdir folder– Create a folder named “folder” in the current directory.cp source destination– Copy a file from “source” to “destination.”mv source destination– Move a file from “source” to “destination.”rm file– Delete a file named “file” in the current directory.
- The terminal is a swift tool for creating, copying, moving, and deleting files and folders. Essential commands include:
These commands provide a foundational knowledge of Linux terminal usage and enable users to perform a wide range of tasks efficiently. While Linux has become more user-friendly over the years, mastering these commands remains invaluable for both newcomers and experienced users alike.