How do you use Linux?

Answer 1

Linux, like Windows, is an advanced operating system, and it's usage cannot be explained in a single paragraph, and probably not an entire page. I'll only try to provide the most basic instructions on how to operate a typical Linux system.

Commands that you can use on the command line:

cd - changes the current directory. cd /etc would take you to the /etc directory on the root partition. cd etcwould take you to the etc directory in the folder you are already in.

ls - Lists files and folders in the current directory.

mkdir - Makes a directory. Example: mkdir folderwould make a directory called "folder."

ifconfig - Displays current networking information, like IP addresses.

top - displays currently running processes / programs. Press Q to quit.

nano - a simple text editor found on most Linux systems. Exit by pressing Ctrl- X.

How to use GNOME (found in Ubuntu and Fedora):

Applications can be launched by pressing the Applications button on the top taskbar. Think of it as the Start menu being at the top of the screen. You can shutdown by clicking the door near the clock.

How to use KDE (found in Kubuntu, Mepis, and OpenSUSE):

Applications can be launched by clicking the KMenu (a blue K in Kubuntu, a blue mountain in SimplyMepis, and a Start button in OpenSUSE) and selecting programs from the list. This should be very familiar to Windows users.

How to use JWM/Fluxbox/Blackbox (found in Puppy Linux and Damn Small Linux:

Right-clicking anywhere on the desktop will cause a menu to pop up. This menu is like a mini Start menu, where you can selectany application you want. JWM also has a Start-like button that launches the same menu.