If you are new to Linux systems, or to "Multiuser" Linux systems, we have a created a walkthrough starting from the very basics. First though, some tiny definitions:

What's Multiuser Linux?

In short, an Operating System (think Mac OSX, Windows, or Linux, that runs the basic computer facilities and controls programs) which lets more than one person use the same computer simultaneously. In other words, while you are running programs and doing things, other people may be too. The Operating System (OS) is in charge of things like preventing you accessing each others documents or processes (i.e. permissions and access control), and making sure you both get your things run (resource sharing).

This matters, because on Multiuser systems, you will probably not be free to install programs, and often may not want to, because they may already be provided, and you will need to respect other users in certain ways.

What's the Command Line?

The command line, or terminal, looks like this:

and is a way you can access files, run programs etc. The nice thing about the terminal is that it is the same, or very similar, across a massive range of computer systems, so knowing how to do simple things here is quite useful. Also, you can access systems remotely (intro videos hereLink opens in a new window if you want to know more) and work at the command line even with a poor internet connection, and without any additional hassle. Text editing programs exist which work entirely inside the terminal, and many programs can take input and show output this way too.

OK, I just want a quick start Command Line tour!

If you just want a quick tour of the Linux command line, because you need to do some tasks on the command line and you're new to it, try the SCRTP docs hereLink opens in a new window.

OK, I want a course with exercises

If you'd prefer a more guided course, including exercises to get started, we have a Moodle course https://moodle.warwick.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=61569Link opens in a new window which you should be able to self-enrol onto. Any problems, please contact resource.rse@warwick.ac.uk 

If you are a student, and would like Skillsforge credit for this, please enrol onto and complete the course and then send us an email at resource.rse@warwick.ac.uk and we will record this.

• SCRTP docs link  hereLink opens in a new window
• Wikipedia link on the history of Rocky LinuxLink opens in a new window
• Direct link to Moodle courseLink opens in a new window
• Our contact email resource.rse@warwick.ac.uk