Basic Ubuntu Commands: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners

Ubuntu is one of the most widely used Linux-based operating systems. Thanks to its open-source structure, security, and stability, it has become a preferred choice not only for individual users but also for businesses. However, in order to use Ubuntu effectively, it is essential to understand the basic command-line operations. In this guide, we will explore the most commonly used Ubuntu commands in detail.

1. Directory Management Commands

• pwd (Print Working Directory): Displays the full path of the current working directory. Usage: pwd

• ls (List): Lists files and directories. Usage: ls, ls -l (detailed), ls -a (shows hidden files).

• cd (Change Directory): Switches between directories. Example: cd /home, cd .. (go up one level), cd ~ (return to home directory).

2. File and Directory Operations

• mkdir: Creates a new directory. Example: mkdir project

• rmdir: Removes an empty directory. Example: rmdir project

• touch: Creates a new empty file. Example: touch test.txt

• rm: Deletes files. Example: rm file.txt, rm -r folder (removes a folder and its contents)

• cp: Copies files or directories. Example: cp source.txt target.txt, cp -r folder1 folder2

• mv: Moves or renames files and directories. Example: mv old.txt new.txt, mv file.txt /home/user/

3. Viewing File Content

• cat: Displays the entire content of a file. Example: cat file.txt

• less: Views large files page by page. Example: less file.txt

• head / tail: Shows the beginning or end of a file. Example: head -n 10 file.txt, tail -n 10 file.txt

4. System Information and Resource Management

• uname: Displays system information. Example: uname -a

• df: Shows disk usage. Example: df -h

• free: Displays memory usage. Example: free -h

• top / htop: Displays running processes and resource usage. Usage: top, htop (requires separate installation)

5. Package Management

Ubuntu uses APT (Advanced Package Tool) for package management.

• sudo apt update → Updates package lists

• sudo apt upgrade → Upgrades installed packages

• sudo apt install package-name → Installs a new package

• sudo apt remove package-name → Removes a package

• sudo apt autoremove → Removes unused dependencies

6. User and Permission Management

• whoami: Displays the current logged-in user

• adduser username: Adds a new user

• passwd username: Changes a user password

• sudo: Executes commands with administrative privileges

7. Networking Commands

• ping: Tests network connectivity. Example: ping google.com

• ifconfig / ip a: Displays network interface information

• wget / curl: Downloads files from the internet. Example: wget file-link, curl -O file-link

Mastering basic Ubuntu commands provides significant advantages for both individual users and businesses. From server management to daily operations, knowing how to use the command line increases efficiency, enhances security, and ensures smoother workflows. Especially for those managing VDS or dedicated servers on Ubuntu, these commands are essential tools for effective system administration.