Chapter 1. Linux Basics

In this chapter, we'll give you an overview of Linux OS, including basic knowledge of CUI (Character-based User Interface), different types of Linux OS (Linux distributions), Linux command syntax, and special characters. Whether you're new to Linux or seeking to refine your understanding, this chapter will introduce key concepts essential for working with Linux operating systems.

What We Cover in This Chapter

The following topics are covered in this chapter:

What Is OS?

In this section, we explore the concept of an Operating System (OS). The OS is the most critical software on a computer, controlling hardware and software resources. It provides multitasking capabilities to manage multiple applications simultaneously. Key functionalities include process management, device management, file management, and security management.

CUI and GUI

In this section, we'll compare two types of user interfaces: CUI (Character User Interface) and GUI (Graphic User Interface). While GUIs, like those in Windows and Mac OS, rely on a mouse for interaction, CUIs use the keyboard alone for actions. We'll discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both and how CUI-based systems, like the terminal in Linux, can be more efficient despite being less intuitive.

Linux Distributions

Here, we dive into the world of Linux distributions, which are versions of Linux OS managed by various organizations and programmers. Each distribution includes the Linux kernel (the foundation of the operating system), GNU shell utilities, and a package management system. We'll cover the two major groups based on package managers: Debian-based and RPM-based distributions.

Package Manager

In this section, we’ll explore what a package manager is and its role in managing the software and libraries required for Linux systems. Package managers automate the process of installing, upgrading, and configuring programs in a consistent manner. We’ll also look at key package managers used in Debian-based and RPM-based distributions.

Kernel and Shell

Here, we'll learn about the kernel, the core program that controls computer resources in Linux, and the shell, which acts as the interface between the user and the kernel. We'll discuss the different types of shells, with a focus on bash, the shell used in this course, and explore the role of the command line in interacting with the system.

Current Working Directory

In this section, we’ll cover the concept of the Current Working Directory (CWD), which defines the location of your working environment on the command line. It is displayed just before the command prompt and is essential for navigating the system effectively.

Linux Directory Structure

Understanding the basic Linux directory structure is crucial for navigating and interacting with the system. We’ll explore key directories like /bin, /etc, and /usr, and discuss the role of these directories in Linux OS.

Absolute Path and Relative Path (Linux OS)

In this section, we’ll examine two approaches to writing file paths: absolute paths and relative paths. We'll cover the structure and differences between these two types of paths, including how to use them to navigate directories in Linux effectively.

Linux Command Syntax

Linux commands follow a standard syntax with three key elements: command, arguments, and options. In this section, we’ll explore the basic command structure and how to use arguments and options to customize commands. We’ll also discuss the importance of quoting in command syntax.

Special Characters and Escape Character

Linux OS uses special characters with specific meanings in commands. In this section, we’ll learn how to handle these characters using the escape character (\) to prevent them from being interpreted by the system.

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