The Unix operating system is the basis for some of today's most-used platforms, including Mac OS X and Linux. This book covers Unix basics for these as well as the more commonly recognized Sun Solaris and BSD.

First, you will learn Unix terminology, core concepts, methodology, and how to log in and out. You'll progress to customizing your work environment and learning commands. Then you'll be ready to learn to manage processes, handle security, automate tasks with shell scripting in Perl, install Unix programs, and back up your data. To facilitate the process, you can use the Knoppix distribution on the CD-ROM to work in a Unix environment without installing Unix.

What you will learn from this book

• Different configuration options in the Unix shell
• Advanced tools and commands, including regular expressions, Sed, and AWK
• Fundamental ways to enhance Unix system security
• Basic programming, including shell scripting and Perl programming
• Network administration and additional aspects of communicating with other operating systems
• How to convert Windows and Mac OS commands and concepts to Unix

Who this book is for

This book is for anyone interested in learning the concepts of the Unix operating system in any of its derivatives. It is designed for the absolute beginner, but it can also be a valuable refresher course for those with some knowledge of Unix and a useful resource for those who want to transfer knowledge from Mac OS or Windows to Unix or its derivatives.