Linux Succinctly
By Jason Cannon
Linux Succinctly is a compact, friendly guide for anyone curious about Linux. Whether you’re a total newbie or just want a refresher, this book makes learning Linux feel easy. It breaks down the essentials without drowning you in jargon. If you want to understand Linux basics fast, this book is a great pick.
CONTENTS OF THE BOOK
Chapter 1 β Introduction
- What is Linux? β brief overview of the Linux operating system
- Linux Distributions β explanation of different distro families
Chapter 2 β Linux Directory Structure
- Common Top-Level Directories
/β The root directory, base of the entire filesystem/binβ Essential user binaries/etcβ System configuration files/homeβ Home directories for users/optβ Optional or third-party installed software/tmpβ Temporary files, cleared on reboot/usrβ User-related, mostly read-only shared data/varβ Variable data such as logs
- Comprehensive Listing of Top-Level Directories
- Application Directory Structures β how applications arrange files
- Organizational Directory Structures β standard layout conventions
Chapter 3 β Command Line Interface
- Basic Commands β foundational commands for navigation and actions
- Command Line Help β ways to access built-in help
Chapter 4 β Directories
- Creating and Removing Directories β using
mkdir,rmdir, etc.
Chapter 5 β Viewing File and Directory Details
- Viewing details like size, ownership, timestamps
- Escaping Spaces and Special Characters β making filenames with spaces work smoothly
Chapter 6 β Permissions
- Decoding Permissions β understanding read/write/execute bits
- Changing Permissions β using
chmod - Numeric-Based Permissions β octal mode (e.g., 755, 644)
- Commonly Used Permissions
- Working with Groups β managing group ownership
- Directory Permissions β how permissions affect directory access
- Default Permissions and File Creation Mask (
umask) - Special Modes β setuid, setgid, sticky bit
umaskExamples
Chapter 7 β Viewing and Editing Files
- Editing Files β general editors available
- The Vim Editor
- Command Mode
- Insert Mode
- Line Mode
- Repeating Commands
- Additional Commands
- Emacs β advanced, powerful editor
- Graphical Editors β GUI-based editing tools
Chapter 8 β Deleting, Moving, and Renaming
- File and directory manipulation using
rm,mv, etc.
Chapter 9 β Finding, Sorting, and Comparing
- Finding Files β
find,locate - Sorting β using
sortand related tools - Comparing β using
diff,cmp, etc.
Chapter 10 β I/O Redirection
- Redirecting input/output using
>,<,>>,|, etc.
Chapter 11 β Additional Command Line Concepts
- Aliases β customizing shortcuts
- Personal Initialization Files β
.bashrc,.profile, etc. - Shell History β command recall
- Tab Completion β faster command input
- Line Continuation β splitting long commands
Chapter 12 β Processes and Jobs
- Understanding processes
- Jobs β using background/foreground tasks
Chapter 13 β Switching Users
sudoβ executing commands as another user- Using Sudo β proper usage and safety
Chapter 14 β Installing Software
- RPM-Based Distributions β Red Hat, CentOS, Fedora
- Using the
rpmCommand - DEB-Based Distributions β Debian, Ubuntu
- Using the
dpkgCommand
Book Description
Linux Succinctly isn’t your typical dry technical manual. Instead, it’s a clear and concise guide that helps you get comfortable with Linux in no time. The book cuts straight to the point, explaining the core concepts you need without overwhelming you. It’s perfect if you’re someone who wants to dive right into Linux and start experimenting.
Book Overview
So, what’s inside? You’ll find an easy-to-follow introduction to the world of Linux. The book covers everything from installing your first distribution to navigating the terminal. You’ll also learn about file systems, basic commands, and how to manage users and permissions. If you’ve ever felt lost trying to figure out how Linux works, this guide will change that.
Why Read This Book
Let’s be honestLinux can look intimidating at first glance! But honestly, it doesn’t have to be that way. That’s what makes Linux Succinctly such a handy companion. The author makes things simple and approachable, so you’re not left scratching your head. Plus, there are plenty of practical examples, so you can follow along as you learn. If you’ve been on the fence about trying Linux, this book might just give you that gentle nudge.
Who This Book Is For
This book is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a quick refresher on Linux basics. Maybe you’re a student eager to expand your tech skills. Or perhaps you’re a developer who needs to brush up on command-line tricks. Even if you’re just curious about what all the fuss is about with Linux, you’ll find value here. No prior experience neededjust bring your curiosity!
What You Will Learn
- How to install and set up your first Linux distribution
- The basics of navigating the terminal like a pro (well, almost!)
- Essential file system concepts and directory structures
- Common commands every user should know
- User management and permissionsno more accidental deletions!
- Troubleshooting simple issues without panicking
- How to customize your environment for productivity
- Tips for exploring further resources and communities
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