Unix as a Second Language

Four ways to view files and file permissions on Linux

Viewing the content of files and examining access permissions and such are very different options. This post examines a number of ways to look at files on Linux.

Exploring bash builtins on Linux

Here's how to learn about the many bash builtins you might be unfamiliar with.

How to create netstat aliases to help focus on network activity

The netstat command can display an overwhelming amount of network statistics. Ready to make your focus a little easier with a series of aliases?

Using the Linux ncdu command to view your disk usage

The ncdu command provides a convenient way to review files and the disk space being used on Linux systems, but the file sizes may appear a little strange at first.

Verifying bash script arguments

Check out how you can ensure that proper arguments are passed to your bash scripts.

Recording your commands on the Linux command line

Linux offers a couple of easy ways to record commands you type so that you can review or rerun them.

Using the at command to schedule tasks on Linux

The at command allows you to run a task on a Linux system at any time or date you specify.

Saving commands to a file using Ctrl-x-e

The Ctrl-x-e key sequence provides a quick and easy way to save commands you've recently used on the command line into files.

Looking up words and terms with the Linux dict command

The dict command on Linux can provide you with access to a large collection of dictionaries, many with a special focus.

Tailoring your Linux command prompt

Here's how to change your Linux command prompt to something you might like better.

Bash scripting tips that can save time on Linux

Here are some steps you can take to ensure that your bash scripts work as intended and are easy to update.

Many ways to use the echo command on Linux

The echo command is simple, except when it isn't. Here's a look at the basic command along with some of the more challenging things it can do.

Joining lines of text on Linux

There are a number of commands on Linux that can help you turn a series of lines of text into a single line. This article explains two of them and provides some scripts to make the job even easier.

Manipulating text with awk, gawk and sed

The awk, gawk and sed commands can turn tedious work into quick fixes. Check out the ways these commands can help get work done smoothly and easily.

Using Linux hexedit and xxd commands to view and modify binary files

The hexedit command provides a way to edit binary files, but to view and save the content in a file for later analysis without editing, try the xxd command.

Working with image files on the Linux command line

There's a lot to learn about image files on the command line, from verifying file format to finding out where and when photos were taken and maybe even getting an unusual view of what they look like.

Commands and settings for managing user accounts on Linux

To manage user accounts on Linux systems, you'll need to be familiar with some important files and commands.

Using the Linux locale command

The locale settings on Linux systems can sync dates and times with where you are in the world.

Creating and removing directory structures on Linux

A few clever Linux commands can make it a lot easier to create, view and remove complex directory structures.

Using the ss command on Linux to view details on sockets

The ss command on Linux systems can provide extensive details on the sockets that provide communications between systems. This article describes ss and some of the many options available to you.