Linux Basic Commands: A Beginner’s Guide

It turns out that Linux is a powerful, open-source operating system that is ideal for developers, home users, people running home servers, businesses, and more . Whatever your job is amid the vast field of computer-related jobs, whether server management, software development, or just taking your journey into the computer world, you can’t do it without knowing Linux commands. In this guide, we will take the command line and introduce you to some basic Linux commands you will use in your daily Linux administration.

  1. Understanding the Terminal
    The CLI (also referred to as “the terminal”) is a quick way to access the power of the Linux system, allowing users to type text-based commands, which are then executed. It’s a flexible instrument that offers greater control and speed than graphical interfaces.
  2. Basic Navigation Commands
    • pwd
    Print Working Directory
    Displays the full path of the current directory you’re in.
    Example: $ pwd
    /home/user/Documents
    • ls
    List Directory Contents
    Shows the files and directories in the current directory.
    Use ls -l for a detailed list, or ls -a to show hidden files.
    Example: $ ls -la
    • cd
    Change Directory
    Navigates between directories.
    Example: $ cd /home/user/Desktop
    • clear
    Clears the terminal screen, helping reduce clutter.

Final Thoughts
Although it may appear overwhelming initially, getting to grips with the commands will be as easy as anything after a while. The command line is nice because you have high control over your system. If you are an absolute beginner or someone with some experience and know-how to do the most common things with Linux, then knowing the basics becomes the most crucial step to becoming a pro with Linux.

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