13 basic Linux commands vvery Beginner should know

Learn the 13 most essential Linux commands for beginners! Master basic file navigation, system info, and file management in the Terminal / Konsole.

Linux is a powerful operating system widely used in servers, development, and even everyday computing. If you’re new to Linux, mastering the terminal is a crucial skill. Here are 13 basic Linux commands that every beginner should know.

13 Basic Linux Commands

1. PWD Basic Linux Command – Print Working Directory

Shows the current directory you’re in, run the Linux command given below in Terminal / Konsole.

pwd

2. ls – Most used basic Linux command

ls stands for list directory, Displays files and folders in the current directory.

ls  
ls -l  # Detailed list  
ls -a  # Shows hidden files

3. cd – Change Directory

Navigates between folders.
bash

cd /path/to/directory  
cd ..  # Go back one directory  
cd ~   # Go to home directory

4. mkdir – Create a Directory

Makes a new folder.

mkdir new_folder

5. rm – Remove Files or Directories

Deletes files or folders (use with caution!).

rm file.txt  
rm -r folder  # Recursive delete (for directories)

6. cp – Copy Files or Directories

Copies files from one location to another.

cp file.txt /destination/  
cp -r folder /destination/  # Copy directories

7. mv – Move or Rename Files

Moves files or renames them.

mv file.txt /new/location/  
mv oldname.txt newname.txt  # Rename

8. cat – Display File Content

Shows the contents of a file.

cat file.txt

9. grep – Search Text in Files

Finds specific text patterns.

grep "search_term" file.txt

10. chmod – Change File Permissions

Modifies read, write, and execute permissions.

chmod 755 script.sh  # Sets executable permissions

11. sudo – Execute as Superuser

Runs commands with administrative privileges.

sudo apt update #ubuntu  
sudo dnf update #fedora
sudo zypper update #opensuse

12. top / htop – Monitor System Processes

Displays running processes and system stats.

top  
htop  # More user-friendly (may need installation)

13 Basic Linux commands- man :

Access Command Manuals

Shows help for any command.

man ls

Final Thoughts

These 13 basic Linux commands are essential for navigating and managing files in the terminal. As you get comfortable, you can explore more advanced commands and scripting.

Which command do you use the most? Let us know in the comments!

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