Getting Started with Linux: A Beginner's Guide

29th April, 2024

Introduction:

If you haven't already, take a look at my previous article on making the switch from Windows to Linux here. Now, if you've landed on Debian or one of its derivatives like Ubuntu or Mint, this guide is tailor-made for you.

Desktop Environment (DE):

Choosing your desktop environment is a personal journey. Take your time to explore and find one that suits your style.

Getting Started with the Basics:

Let's dive into some essential terminal commands to kickstart your Linux journey:

  1. sudo: Think of it as saying "computer please" while wielding admin powers. It's your ticket to perform administrative tasks.
  2. cd: Short for "change directory," this command navigates through your file system.
  3. ls: Use it to list the contents of a directory.
  4. pwd: It prints the path of the current working directory.
  5. man: Your go-to manual for any command. For instance, typing man ls will provide a breakdown of how to use the ls command.

Fun Fact: All these commands are actually files located in '/bin'!

Package Management:

Enter the world of package managers, with 'apt' leading the pack. It's your one-stop-shop for installing software. For example, sudo apt install neofetch will download neofetch, an application that fetches info about your computer.

Breaking it down:

Searching for applications? Try sudo apt search <application>. The package name will appear if it's available.

Learning Resources:

The Linux community is vast and friendly. There's no such thing as a silly question. Remember, no one will spoon-feed you Linux; it's a journey of self-discovery. Plenty of videos and tutorials are available to guide you along the way.

In simple terms, Linux is all about exploration, experimentation, and embracing the learning process. Happy exploring!