FLASH CARDS

4.04 Identify common features and tools of Linux client and desktop OS

  • What is the primary function of the Command-Line Interface (CLI) in Linux?

  • To interact with the operating system using text-based commands, providing powerful and flexible control.

  • How does CLI compare to a Graphical User Interface (GUI)?

  • CLI is faster, uses fewer resources, and allows for scripting to automate tasks, unlike GUI which requires more system resources and uses a mouse for interaction.

  • What is a Linux shell?

  • A shell is a command-line interpreter that processes commands entered in the terminal and executes the corresponding operations.

  • What is the role of the Linux kernel?

  • The kernel manages system resources, facilitates communication between hardware and software, and acts as a bridge between applications and physical hardware.

  • What is a Linux distribution (distro)?

  • A complete OS package built around the Linux kernel, including a package manager, software repository, and various shells, utilities, and applications.

  • What are common Linux desktop environments?

  • GNOME, KDE, Cinnamon, and Xfce.

  • What is the difference between a terminal and a shell in Linux?

  • A terminal is a program that opens a window for command input, while a shell is a command-line interpreter that processes and executes commands.

  • What is a terminal emulator in Linux?

  • A program that allows users to access the CLI within a graphical environment, simulating a terminal session.

  • What does the root directory (/) represent in the Linux file system?

  • The root directory is the starting point of the entire Linux file system, containing all other directories and files.

  • How are devices represented in the Linux file system?

  • Devices such as hard drives and USB sticks are represented as files within the /dev/ directory (e.g., /dev/sda for the first hard drive).

  • What is the purpose of the /home directory in Linux?

  • The /home directory stores personal files for each user, with individual directories for each user account.

  • What is the /etc directory used for in Linux?

  • The /etc directory stores system configuration files that manage the system's settings and applications.

  • What is the role of a regular user in Linux?

  • Regular users are limited in terms of system access and permissions. They perform daily tasks and can temporarily gain higher privileges using commands like sudo.

  • What is the root user in Linux?

  • The root user (superuser) has full control over the system and can perform any action, but it should be used sparingly for security reasons.

  • What does the ls command do in Linux?

  • The ls command lists files and directories in the current directory.

  • What does the -a option do with the ls command?

  • It shows all files, including hidden ones (those that start with a dot).

  • What does the cp -r command do in Linux?

  • It copies directories and their contents recursively.

  • How can you combine multiple commands in Linux?

  • Use a semicolon (;) to run multiple commands in sequence or a pipe (|) to pass the output of one command as the input to another.

  • What is the man command used for in Linux?

  • The man command displays the manual or documentation for a command, providing detailed usage and options.

  • How can you access help for Linux commands?

  • Use the --help flag (e.g., command --help) or the man command (e.g., man command) to access command documentation.

  • What is the primary difference between a Command-Line Interface (CLI) and a Graphical User Interface (GUI)?

  • A CLI requires users to type commands, while a GUI allows users to interact with the system through visual icons and windows.