Summary

Learn Linux in a Month of Lunches shows you how to install and use Linux for all the things you do with your OS, like connecting to a network, installing software, and securing your system. Whether you're just curious about Linux or have to get up and running for your job, you'll appreciate how this book concentrates on the tasks you need to know how to do in 23 easy lessons.

About the Technology

If you've only used Windows or Mac OS X, you may be daunted by the Linux operating system. And yet learning Linux doesn't have to be hard, and the payoff is great. Linux is secure, flexible, and free. It's less susceptible to malicious attacks, and when it is attacked, patches are available quickly. If you don't like the way it looks or behaves, you can change it. And best of all, Linux allows users access to different desktop interfaces and loads of software, almost all of it completely free.

About the Book

Learn Linux in a Month of Lunches shows you how to install and use Linux for all the things you do with your OS, like connecting to a network, installing software, and securing your system. Whether you're just curious about Linux or need it for your job, you'll appreciate how this book focuses on just the tasks you need to learn. In easy-to-follow lessons designed to take an hour or less, you'll learn how to use the command line, along with practical topics like installing software, customizing your desktop, printing, and even basic networking. You'll find a road map to the commands and processes you need to be instantly productive.

What's Inside

• Master the command line
• Learn about file systems
• Understand desktop environments
• Go from Linux novice to expert in just one month

About the Reader

This book is for anyone looking to learn how to use Linux. No previous Linux experience required.

About the Author

Steven Ovadia is a professor and librarian at LaGuardia Community College, CUNY. He curates The Linux Setup, a large collection of interviews with desktop Linux users, and writes for assorted library science journals.

Table of Contents

PART 1 - GETTING LINUX UP AND RUNNING

1. Before you begin
2. Getting to know Linux
3. Installing Linux
4. Getting to know your system
5. Desktop environments
6. Navigating your desktop

PART 2 - A HOME OFFICE IN LINUX

7. Installing software
8. An introduction to Linux home/office software
9. Text files and editors
10. Working with files and folders on the command line
11. Working with common command-line applications, part 1
12. Working with common command-line applications, part 2
13. Using the command line productively
14. Explaining the Linux filesystem hierarchy
15. Windows programs in Linux
16. Establishing a workflow

PART 3 - HOME SYSTEM ADMIN ON LINUX

17. An in-depth look at package management and maintenance
18. Updating the operating system
19. Linux security
20. Connecting to other computers
21. Printing
22. Version control for non-programmers
23. Never the end