The Best Command Line Books of All Time

This practical, tutorial-style book uses the Kali Linux distribution to teach Linux basics with a focus on how hackers would use them. Topics include Linux command line basics, filesystems, networking, BASH basics, package management, logging, and the Linux kernel and drivers. If you're getting started along the exciting path of hacking, cybersecurity, and pentesting, Linux Basics for Hackers is an excellent first step.

Using Kali Linux, an advanced penetration testing distribution of Linux, you'll learn the basics of using the Linux operating system and acquire the tools and techniques you'll need to take control of a Linux environment. First, you'll learn how to install Kali on a virtual machine and get an introduction to basic Linux concepts. Next, you'll tackle broader Linux topics like manipulating text, controlling file and directory permissions, and managing user environment variables. You'll then focus in on foundational hacking concepts like security and anonymity and learn scripting skills with bash and Python. Practical tutorials and exercises throughout will reinforce and test your skills as you learn how to:. - Cover your tracks by changing your network information and manipulating the rsyslog logging utility. - Write a tool to scan for network connections, and connect and listen to wireless networks. - Keep your internet activity stealthy using Tor, proxy servers, VPNs, and encrypted email. - Write a bash script to scan open ports for potential targets. - Use and abuse services like MySQL, Apache web server, and OpenSSH. - Build your own hacking tools, such as a remote video spy camera and a password cracker. Hacking is complex, and there is no single way in. Why not start at the beginning with Linux Basics for Hackers?

You've experienced the shiny, point-and-click surface of your Linux computer—now dive below and explore its depths with the power of the command line. The Linux Command Line takes you from your very first terminal keystrokes to writing full programs in Bash, the most popular Linux shell (or command line). Along the way you'll learn the timeless skills handed down by generations of experienced, mouse-shunning gurus: file navigation, environment configuration, command chaining, pattern matching with regular expressions, and more.

In addition to that practical knowledge, author William Shotts reveals the philosophy behind these tools and the rich heritage that your desktop Linux machine has inherited from Unix supercomputers of yore. As you make your way through the book's short, easily-digestible chapters, you'll learn how to:. Create and delete files, directories, and symlinksAdminister your system, including networking, package installation, and process managementUse standard input and output, redirection, and pipelinesEdit files with Vi, the world's most popular text editorWrite shell scripts to automate common or boring tasksSlice and dice text files with cut, paste, grep, patch, and sed. Once you overcome your initial "shell shock," you'll find that the command line is a natural and expressive way to communicate with your computer. Just don't be surprised if your mouse starts to gather dust.

Take your Linux skills to the next level! Whether you're a system administrator, software developer, site reliability engineer, or enthusiastic hobbyist, this practical, hands-on book will help you work faster, smarter, and more efficiently. You'll learn how to create and run complex commands that solve real business problems, process and retrieve information, and automate manual tasks. You'll also truly understand what happens behind the shell prompt, so no matter which commands you run, you can be more successful in everyday Linux use and more competitive on the job market.

As you build intermediate to advanced command-line skills, you'll learn how to: Choose or construct commands that get your work done quickly Run commands efficiently and navigate the Linux filesystem with ease Build powerful, complex commands out of simpler ones Transform text files and query them like databases to achieve business goals Control Linux point-and-click features from the command line.