Why Should You Consider Learning Linux?
If you plan to get into IT, understanding how Linux works is a must.
So, without further ado, let’s jump right into the list.
From command-line to networking, they have you covered.
And under each section, there are subsections that divide the lessons even further.
The lessons are all text-based, with additional code snippets where necessary.
This could be a con for people who prefer visual materials.
Each lesson is bite-sized, so you’re able to finish them in only a few minutes.
you’re able to also test your learning with the quiz questions at the bottom.
Zunaid Ali / How-To Geek
Theuser interface (UI)looks sleek and clean so that you have a great experience while learning.
You don’t need to navigate too much to find the lesson you’re looking for.
Linux Journey offers 15 languages as of this writing, making it possible to learn in your preferred language.
OverTheWire
OverTheWireis about learning Linux through solving challenges they like to call “Wargames.”
The challenges are mostly geared toward folks interested in learning computer security.
However, there is a whole section for learning the basics of Linux.
There are 10+ wargames.
Each wargame covers a different aspect of security.
For example, the first wargame, “Bandit,” covers the bare basics of Linux commands.
“Natas” covers web security.
“Krypton” goes over cryptography concepts.
“Narnia” is about basic exploitations.
Every wargame consists of many levels.
So it feels like you’re going through an adventure.
To play the games, you gotta connect to the respective wargame server viaSSH.
If you love solving tough challenges, then OverTheWire can be your best bet for learning Linux.
Linux Survival
Linux Survivalis a compilation of beginner Linux topics and commands organized in modules.
There are a total of four modules.
Each module contains a different set of topics.
For example, module 1 is all aboutfile and directory manipulation on Linux.
The lessons do a great job of walking you through the concepts and explaining usecases.
After each module, you could take a quiz to test your knowledge.
For its beginner-friendly approach and terminal integration, Linux Survival definitely gets our recommendation for learning Linux.
Terminus
Terminusis all about learning the Linux command line by playing a text-based adventure game.
The game restricts you to a few commands in a particular environment.
Instead, you learn each one thoroughly by using it when necessary.
This also allows you to experiment with the commands freely.
They also create a memorable visual connection with the commands you’re inputting.
Hackerrank
Hackerrankis a tech hiring platform.
If you’re familiar with competitive programming, then you’ll love this style of learning.
There’s an integratedcode editorwhere you’re free to write Bash code to solve the problem.
You cantest run your code to find any errors, then submit your solution.
Hackerrank tests your solutions with different inputs to see if your solution is correct.
However, not all problems contain tutorials or solutions attached.
So, unlike other options in this list, Hackerrank doesn’t do much hand-holding.
So if that’s your thing, you’ll enjoy sharpening your Linux knowledge here.
PicoCTF
PicoCTFis best known for its beginner-friendly Capture The Flag (CTF) challenges.
A lot of CTF challenges involve using Linux commands or navigatingvulnerable Linux servers.
There are hundreds of challenges to choose from.
All challenges are categorized into different topics.
Most Linux challenges fall under the “General Skills” category.
Depending on the difficulty of the problem, you’re awarded points when you successfully solve a challenge.
This makes it easier for newcomers to enjoy their learning process.
The PicoGym section contains all past problems from CTF competitions.
Your total earned points are saved in your account so that you’re free to track your progress.
If you’re interested in learning Linux through fun security challenges, then you should try out PicoCTF.
Vim Adventures is an adventure game that will help you become proficient in this editor.
Vim is quite different from many of the traditional text editors you’ve likely used in the past.
Vim Adventures focuses on all the commands and keys necessary to operate the Vim editor.
This includes navigating through text, saving data, running macros, and more.
you better go through a maze and complete different tasks to complete the game.
For full access to the game, it’s crucial that you buy a license.
And that holds true for learning Linux as well.
So what is the best way to learn Linux?
Byinstalling itand using it yourself.
Immerse yourself in the Linux environment.
But don’t worry.
You canuse virtualization software such as VirtualBoxor VMWare to install a Linux distribution of your choice.
Then, play around the distro to learn how things work.
The best part is that even if you break something, it won’t affect your rig at all.
This ensures you not only gain knowledge but can also apply it in real life.
So don’t hesitate to dive in, make mistakes, and celebrate the small wins along this journey.
Want to learn Linux from short and practical guides?
Check out our guides toworking faster in the terminalorwriting your first Bash script.
