I've noticed a lot of people discuss how to use Linux, but not much is said about how it actually functions underneath. As a beginner, Linux feels like a bit of a mystery to me; I can follow tutorials and learn the commands, but I struggle to understand why those commands work and what happens behind the scenes. For example, when I tried installing Arch, I couldn't grasp how packages were installed, how the package manager interacts with the operating system, or even how the Linux kernel is structured. It often feels like I'm just learning to operate a black box without really understanding its workings. I'm looking for resources or ways to deeply learn about Linux's architecture and how my system operates as a whole. Any recommendations?
5 Answers
If you want a deep understanding of how Linux works, I recommend checking out 'Linux From Scratch'. It's a project that guides you in building your own Linux system from the ground up, which really helps you understand the mechanics behind it.
There’s also the Debian Handbook online which can be pretty helpful. Even if you’re not using Debian, it often explains concepts that apply to any Linux distribution.
The Linux Foundation offers an 'Introduction to Linux' course, which might be a great resource for getting to grips with the foundational concepts. It could shine a light on how every piece fits together in the Linux ecosystem.
You should look into a book called 'How Linux Works'. It really breaks down the concepts and answers many of the questions you're asking. If you're a true beginner, 'The Linux Command Line' might be a good starting point before diving into 'How Linux Works'. It's more about using the system rather than understanding it, but it sets a great foundation.
The Arch Wiki is actually one of the best places to start. Even if you’re not using Arch, it has a wealth of information that covers many aspects of how Linux works. It dives into a lot of detail that can clear up many of your questions.
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