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Asked: 2024-09-24T17:07:03+05:30 In:

How can I execute a command in the terminal on Ubuntu?

I’ve been trying to get the hang of Ubuntu and its terminal, but it feels a bit like a foreign language to me at times. I keep hearing people rave about how powerful it is, but honestly, I hit a wall whenever I try to execute commands.

For example, I want to do something simple like checking the disk space. I figured there had to be a command for that, but every time I consult the web, it seems like there are a zillion ways to do it, and I can’t tell which one is straightforward enough for a newbie like me. Has anyone out there had the same experience?

Let’s say I load up my terminal, and I’m staring at that blinking cursor, feeling a little overwhelmed. How do I even start? Is there a specific command I should type to get the ball rolling? And while we’re at it, what do I need to know about navigating directories? Sometimes I hear people talk about changing directories and listing files and honestly, it sounds like a whole other world.

And then, there’s this whole idea of permissions – like, why can’t I just do whatever I want? I’ve bumped into situations where I try to execute a command only to be greeted with a “permission denied” message. Ugh, what gives?

Also, I keep hearing about things like “sudo” being thrown around. I gather it stands for “superuser do,” but is it really necessary? There’s a bit of intimidation tied to that superuser business. If I need to use it to execute certain commands, how do I safely do that without messing things up?

I really want to learn how to execute commands confidently and not feel like I’m just guessing what to type. If anyone’s got tips or a simple rundown of how to go about it without feeling too overwhelmed, I would greatly appreciate it. Seriously, any advice or personal experiences would be super helpful. What were your first steps, and what mistakes should I avoid? Thanks!

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    2 Answers


    1. Learning to navigate Ubuntu and the terminal can be daunting at first, especially when you’re trying to figure out fundamental commands like checking disk space. A straightforward way to check your disk usage is by using the command df -h, which will present the disk space usage in a human-readable format. This command gives you an overview of all the mounted filesystems. To navigate directories, you can use cd (change directory) followed by the name of the folder you want to access. To list files within a directory, the command is ls. These basic commands are essential for navigating the file system and will serve as a foundation for further exploration.

      Regarding permissions, it’s integral to understand that Linux is built on a permission-based architecture for security and control. When you encounter a “permission denied” error, it’s typically because the command requires higher privileges, which is where sudo (superuser do) comes into play. This command temporarily elevates your permission level and allows you to execute tasks that a standard user cannot. However, it’s essential to use sudo cautiously; improper commands can affect system files or settings. A good practice is to familiarize yourself with the commands you intend to run before using sudo, ensuring you understand their purpose and implications. Starting with these fundamental concepts and commands can help boost your confidence in using the terminal effectively.




    2. Getting Started with Ubuntu Terminal


      Getting Familiar with the Terminal

      It sounds like you’re diving into the deep end with Ubuntu and its terminal! Don’t worry; everyone feels a bit lost at first. Here are some simple commands and tips to help you get started without feeling overwhelmed.

      Checking Disk Space

      To check your disk space, just type the following command in the terminal:

      df -h

      This gives you a readable format of disk usage. If you want to see more detailed info for your home directory, you can also use:

      du -sh ~

      Navigating Directories

      Changing directories and listing files is super important. Here are some basic commands:

      • cd /path/to/directory – This lets you change to a specific directory. Use cd .. to go back one directory.
      • ls – This lists all files and folders in your current directory.
      • pwd – This shows your current directory’s path.

      Understanding Permissions

      About those “permission denied” messages, Ubuntu uses a permission system to keep your system secure. If you’re trying to run a command that needs admin rights, you’ll need to prefix it with:

      sudo

      This stands for “superuser do.” Don’t worry, it’s normal to feel a bit intimidated. Just keep that in mind for commands that require higher permissions.

      Using Sudo Safely

      When using sudo, it’s good to be cautious. Always double-check the command you’re running. If you’re unsure about what a command does, use man command_name (e.g., man ls) to read the manual; it’s super helpful!

      Final Tips

      • Practice makes perfect! The more you type, the more you’ll remember.
      • Don’t hesitate to Google specific commands and tutorials. There’s a lot of info out there for beginners!
      • Ask questions if you’re stuck; the community is usually really helpful.

      Keep experimenting and you’ll definitely get the hang of it! Good luck!


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