Web hosting script - Chapter 14Working without the GUIIn This Chapter Understanding
Chapter 14Working without the GUIIn This Chapter Understanding the user shell environment Customizing the bashenvironment Working with commands Tinkering with variables Using redirection and pipes Using yet more wildcards Using a variety of commandsWhom computers would destroy, they must first drive mad. AnonymousMany computing old-timers speak fondly of the command line. Otherswho developed their skills by pointing and clicking refer to the com- mand line as some antiquated tool used by crusty old-timers. The truth isthat most skilled computing professionals recognize the merits of both thegraphical user interface (GUI) and the command-line interface (CLI). Youmust understand that the command line provides a powerful lever for operat- ing your computer. If you ever watch over the shoulder of a skilled Linuxgeek, you notice that, after logging in, he doesn t take long to start tappingout seemingly cryptic instructions on a command line. In this chapter, I explore the Linux program that provides the CLI, which iscalled the bashshell. Although many shells are available for Linux, bashisthe most common, and for good reason. Basically, the creators of bashrolledmany good features of other shells into one terrific package. Each shell has its own way of handling commands and its own additional setof tools. I start by explaining what a shell really is, and when you understandthat, you re ready to get down and dirty with bash. I cover specifically what you can do with some of the best features of the bashshell. Then, I con- tinue with working at the command prompt and get into bashshell interiordecorating.