How to Learn the Linux Operating System
- 1). Check out some online schools or accredited training schools that offer Linux classes. Since Linux is not an easy operating system to learn, you may need to attend online or classroom training. Some online classes are self-paced, which works for some individuals who are busy and can't attend regular classes. If you prefer to study in a classroom setting with an instructor and classmates, you might want to consider technical schools or colleges that offer courses on how to become a Linux systems administrator.
- 2). Study the course material. First, learn what Linux is and how to install it. Next, learn about the actual installation, the basic partitioning and configuration. Then, you should learn the different commands involved in using Linux. Start from the basic commands, such as logging into a Linux operating system, navigating within Linux, searching the directory, finding where the files are, creating files or folders and executing other important commands.
- 3). Read books to learn about Linux. Some online books are available free of charge. You can check on the Linux websites that offer book selections that you can download and print or read online. You can also go to libraries or bookstores to avail yourself of Linux technical training books. For more information on the books you should read, please click on the link "Linux Books" in Resources.
- 4). Learn using Linux tutorial CDs. Some CDs provide systematic Linux training, starting from the basics and continuing to the advanced. Some CDs even offer simulations, wherein you can experience using Linux even when you don't have the software installed on your computer.
- 5). Install Linux on your computer. The best way to learn it is to use it. If you prefer not to overwrite your Windows operating system with Linux, you can install it on a spare computer. You may also opt to use VMware (virtual machine software), which allows you to use both Windows and Linus operating systems on a single machine.
- 6). Learn from other people who are proficient with Linux. Find a mentor who can devote some of his or her time to help you get up to speed with learning this system. Your mentor doesn't have to devote a lot of time to teaching you; he or she just needs to be available in case you need some help figuring things out. Ideally, you would learn from an experienced Linux systems administrator who works with Linux on the daily basis.
- 7). Install "PuTTY," which is freeware that you can download online (see Resources). PuTTY allows you to SSH (secure shell) or telnet into a machine using Linux even if you're using Windows on your computer. You can practice some Linux commands using PuTTY to gain more experience.
- 8). Keep practicing. Most commands used by Linux are easier to remember than others; however, there are commands that can be confusing. Most Linux commands are case-sensitive, so using incorrect cases may render commands invalid. Some symbols incorrectly placed or missing spaces between symbols may also render the commands invalid; therefore, it is important to practice the commands to become more proficient in using them.