First Steps With Linux: A Practical Guide to Linux from the Command Line

First Steps With LinuxA practical guide to understanding Linux and working confidently from the command line.Many people begin learning Linux by copying commands without really understanding what they do. This book takes a different approach.Instead of memorising commands, you’ll learn how to work with a Linux system step by step: navigating the filesystem, managing permissions and users, installing software, handling storage, working with processes, and using essential networking tools.By the end, the terminal will feel like a tool you can rely on, not something mysterious.What You’ll Be Able To DoAfter working through this book, you’ll be able to:• Navigate and manage a Linux system confidently from the command line• Manage files and directories, analyze logs, and chain commands into workflows• Work with permissions including SUID, SGID, sticky bit, ACLs, and file attributes• Manage users and groups to control access• Install, update, and manage software across major Linux families (apt/dpkg, dnf/rpm), including local repositories• Monitor and troubleshoot systems using command-line tools• Manage storage using RAID, LVM, and disk quotas• Share storage across systems using NFS• Configure network interfaces and test connectivity• Manage processes and services• Schedule tasks using cron, systemd timers, at, and batchInstead of feeling lost in the terminal, you’ll know how to use the command line to perform real administrative tasks.What You’ll LearnThis book walks you through Linux step by step using practical command-line examples.Inside you’ll find:• A beginner-friendly journey across 16 chapters organized into 6 parts• Clear explanations focused on how Linux systems are used in practice• Practical command-line examples for real system administration tasks• Coverage of major package management tools including apt, dpkg, dnf, and rpm• Core areas such as permissions, software management, storage, processes, and networking• Lab environments for safe hands-on practiceWho This Book Is ForThis book is written for:• Developers who want to understand the systems their applications run on• Students beginning their Linux journey• IT professionals moving from Windows environments to Linux• Self-taught learners who want to strengthen their command-line skillsIt can also serve as a practical foundation for readers preparing for certifications such as RHCSA, LFCS, and Network+.No prior Linux experience is required.Book StructurePart I — Linux FoundationsUnderstanding Linux and Its ValueGetting Started with LinuxWorking with Files and DirectoriesPart II — Security and Access ControlPermissions and OwnershipAdvanced File Access ControlUser ManagementPart III — System AdministrationManaging Software from the Command LineManaging Filesystems and StorageManaging Advanced StoragePart IV — Text Processing and AutomationHandling Text Files from the Command LineRegular ExpressionsWorking with Archives and Compressed FilesPart V — Processes and Job SchedulingLinux Process ManagementScheduling Jobs in LinuxPart VI — NetworkingIntroduction to NetworkingIntroduction to Routing in LinuxPractice LabsThe book includes guided environments so you can practice safely.You’ll learn how to set up Linux using:• Virtual machines• Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)• Vagrant and KVM lab environmentsSome chapters include isolated labs for storage and networking, allowing you to break and rebuild systems without affecting your main system. Read more