Book Image

Linux Utilities Cookbook

By : James Kent Lewis
Book Image

Linux Utilities Cookbook

By: James Kent Lewis

Overview of this book

<p>Linux is a stable, reliable and extremely powerful operating system. It has been around for many years, however, most people still don't know what it can do and the ways it is superior to other operating systems. Many people want to get started with Linux for greater control and security, but getting started can be time consuming and complicated. <br /><br />A practical, hands-on guide that provides you with a number of clear step-by-step examples to help you solve many of the questions that crop up when using an operating system you may not be familiar with.</p> <p>Presenting solutions to the most common Linux problems in a clear and concise way, this helpful guide starts with spicing up the terminal sessions by command retrieval and line editing, and shell prompt variables. We will then get to know the different desktops (GUIs) available for Linux systems and which is the best fit for you. We will then explore the world of managing files and directories, connectivity, and what to do when it goes wrong. We will also learn a range of skills, from creating and managing user accounts to securing your system, managing and limiting processes, and letting information flow from one process to another using pipes. Later, we will master disk management, working with scripts and automating tasks quickly, and finally, understand the need for a custom kernel and tips on how to build one.</p> <p><br />Based on the author's extensive experience, there is a section on best practices that every Linux user should be familiar with.</p>
Table of Contents (19 chapters)
Linux Utilities Cookbook
Credits
About the Author
About the Reviewers
www.PacktPub.com
Preface
Index

Being open to new ideas


Here is my last bit of advice for people wanting to know Linux better. I consistently see people in the field doing their everyday jobs, and doing it the same way. Always be on the lookout on how to improve the way you perform your daily tasks. If you see a co-worker doing something that seems odd to you, don't just assume his way is wrong and yours is right. His process may be a whole lot better than yours. Learn from it. On the other hand, he may not have a better way, yours may be better. At this point, it's up to you to decide whether to attempt to share your ideas. I have found most people very resistant to this.

Do not let yourself get caught in the "Your way isn't better than mine, it's just different" argument. As I mentioned before, there is usually only one right way to perform a task, but most people just don't see this. Try to find it when you can, and share your ideas only if the person you are trying to help is receptive.