Master the Basics of Linux: Essential Commands for Cybersecurity Analysts

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Linux is a powerful operating system widely used in cybersecurity, IT, and system administration. Mastering its essential commands can significantly enhance your efficiency and productivity. Below is a comprehensive guide to fundamental Linux commands, along with practical examples and applications.

File Navigation & Management

1. `pwd` – Print working directory

pwd 

2. `ls` – List directory contents

ls -la # Show hidden files with details 

3. `cd` – Change directory

cd /var/log # Navigate to log directory 

4. `mkdir` – Create a directory

mkdir cyber_scripts 

5. `rm` – Remove files/directories

rm -r old_folder # Recursive deletion 

File Operations

6. `cat` – Display file content

cat /etc/passwd 

7. `cp` – Copy files

cp file.txt /backup/ 

8. `mv` – Move/rename files

mv old_name.txt new_name.txt 

9. `grep` – Search text patterns

grep "error" /var/log/syslog 

System Information & Monitoring

10. `uname` – Display system info

uname -a 

11. `top` / `htop` – Process monitoring

top 

12. `df` – Disk space usage

df -h 

13. `free` – Memory usage

free -m 

Networking Commands

14. `ifconfig` / `ip a` – Network interfaces

ip a 

15. `ping` – Check connectivity

ping google.com 

16. `netstat` – Network statistics

netstat -tuln 

17. `ssh` – Remote login

ssh [email protected] 

Permissions & Security

18. `chmod` – Change file permissions

chmod 755 script.sh 

19. `chown` – Change file ownership

chown root:root file.txt 

20. `sudo` – Execute as superuser

sudo apt update 

Process Management

21. `ps` – List processes

ps aux 

22. `kill` – Terminate a process

kill -9 1234 

You Should Know:

  • Compressing Files:
    tar -czvf archive.tar.gz /path/to/directory 
    
  • Finding Files:
    find / -name "*.conf" 
    
  • Checking Logs:
    tail -f /var/log/auth.log 
    

What Undercode Say:

Linux commands are the backbone of cybersecurity operations. Whether you’re analyzing logs, managing servers, or securing networks, mastering these commands will give you an edge. Practice them in a safe environment like Kali Linux or Ubuntu. Automate repetitive tasks with shell scripting (#!/bin/bash) and always verify commands before execution to avoid system damage.

Expected Output:

A well-structured Linux command cheat sheet for cybersecurity professionals, complete with practical examples and security best practices.

Relevant URLs:

References:

Reported By: Agbai Joseph – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass βœ…

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