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Linux TUI (Text User Interface) software provides a user-friendly way to interact with applications directly from the terminal, using text-based menus and interfaces instead of a graphical desktop environment. Below is a categorized list of useful TUI software available on Linux.
System Monitoring & Management
- htop – Interactive process viewer (
sudo apt install htop). - btop – Modern resource monitor (
sudo apt install btop). - nmtui – NetworkManager TUI for managing network connections (
nmtui).
File Management
- ranger – Terminal file manager (
sudo apt install ranger). - nnn – Lightweight file browser (
sudo apt install nnn). - mc (Midnight Commander) – Classic file manager (
sudo apt install mc).
Text Editors & IDEs
- neovim – Vim-based text editor (
sudo apt install neovim). - emacs (TUI mode) – Launch Emacs in terminal (
emacs -nw). - micro – Simple and intuitive editor (
sudo apt install micro).
Networking Tools
- nmap (TUI mode) – Network scanner (
sudo apt install nmap). - wavemon – Wireless network monitor (
sudo apt install wavemon). - iftop – Bandwidth monitoring (
sudo apt install iftop).
Media & Productivity
- cmus – Music player (
sudo apt install cmus). - newsboat – RSS feed reader (
sudo apt install newsboat). - taskwarrior – Task management (
sudo apt install taskwarrior).
Development & Version Control
- tig – Git TUI (
sudo apt install tig). - lazygit – Git terminal UI (
sudo go install github.com/jesseduffield/lazygit@latest). - cmatrix – Fun terminal matrix effect (
sudo apt install cmatrix).
You Should Know:
- Customizing TUI Apps: Many TUI tools support themes and keybindings (e.g.,
~/.config/htop/htoprc). - SSH & Remote TUIs: Use `ssh user@host -X` for remote TUI apps.
- Scripting TUIs: Tools like `dialog` or `whiptail` help create custom TUI scripts.
What Undercode Say:
Linux TUIs enhance productivity for sysadmins, developers, and power users by reducing GUI dependency. Mastering tools like htop, ranger, and `neovim` can streamline workflows. For automation, combine TUIs with shell scripts (!/bin/bash). Always check `man` pages (man <command>) for deeper customization.
Expected Output:
A well-structured list of Linux TUI tools with practical commands for immediate use.
Reference:
References:
Reported By: Xmodulo Linux – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ✅
