I'm a junior systems admin currently learning Linux and trying to wean myself off Google platforms. I have a solid background in hardware and Windows troubleshooting, but I need to get serious about mastering Linux for my Cyber studies. I've picked up a Udemy course by Colt Steele and I'm also reading 'The Linux Bible', but I'm overwhelmed by the sheer number of resources available. I'm an interactive learner and I read slowly, so I'm looking for guidance on how to start from scratch. Specifically, I want to understand repositories, how to set up servers, and perform various tasks beyond just simple commands. I can handle basic commands like 'ls', 'cd', and 'whoami', but I want to deepen my understanding so I can tackle more complex issues, like fixing graphics and audio drivers without hesitation. I'm currently using Linux Mint with Cinnamon on my gaming laptop and desktop, and XFCE on my Surface Go. Any advice on the best learning path and resources would be greatly appreciated!
5 Answers
Running your own servers is a great way to learn. You can set up several VMs to test things out, or use a VPS for more serious projects since they're accessible from anywhere. I highly recommend Pluralsight for structured learning, especially during sales. They offer practical labs that you can build and break as needed, which makes the learning process way more engaging!
Two must-read books I recommend are 'How Linux Works' and 'The Linux Command Line' from No Starch Press. They give a solid foundation and plenty of practical knowledge. Don't shy away from shell scripting either; it's super valuable as you level up your skills. Just remember, learning takes time and repetition, so stay patient and keep asking questions if you hit roadblocks. You're on the right path!
If you're feeling adventurous, consider a Gentoo installation. It dives deep into the workings of Linux without requiring you to build everything from scratch. Just make sure to seek help from forums or Google whenever you're stuck. This approach taught me a lot about both hardware and software.
To build a strong foundation in Linux, start with the command line basics and essential concepts like package management (think 'apt' and 'yum'). After that, focus on networking, system admin skills, and security. Sites like Linux Academy or YouTube channels dedicated to Linux are super helpful too. It's also a good idea to practice using VMs or containers to apply what you learn. Stick with one distribution before branching out, and check out 'The Linux Command Line' book if you haven't already.
One fun way to learn Linux is through self-hosting! It's hands-on and rewarding because you end up with something useful at the end. It really helped me grasp a lot about the system because I was constantly experimenting and figuring things out on my own.
Related Questions
How To Get Your Domain Unblocked From Facebook
How To Find A String In a Directory of Files Using Linux