A Guide to Basic Linux Commands and Installing Linux on WSL and Proxmox

A Guide to Basic Linux Commands and Installing Linux on WSL and Proxmox, with the ability to get started, has never been easier. You can run Linux on your Windows system right now. You can also start easily with free bare metal virtualization with products like Proxmox. Dive in and have fun!

THE BASICS

Adam Grunden

2/18/20242 min read

Linux is a powerful operating system that is widely used in the world of technology. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, understanding the basic Linux commands is essential for navigating and managing your system effectively. In this article, we will explore some of the most commonly used Linux commands and provide tips on installing Linux on Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) and Proxmox.

Basic Linux Commands

1. ls - This command lists the files and directories in the current directory.

2. cd - Use this command to change directories. For example, "cd /home" will take you to the home directory.

3. mkdir - Use this command to create a new directory. For example, "mkdir documents" will create a directory named "documents".

4. rm - This command is used to remove files and directories. Be cautious when using this command, as it permanently deletes the files.

5. cp - Use this command to copy files and directories. For example, "cp file1.txt file2.txt" will create a copy of "file1.txt" named "file2.txt".

6. mv - This command is used to move files and directories. For example, "mv file1.txt /home" will move "file1.txt" to the home directory.

7. cat - Use this command to display the contents of a file. For example, "cat file.txt" will display the contents of "file.txt".

8. grep - This command is used to search for a specific pattern in a file. For example, "grep 'keyword' file.txt" will search for the word "keyword" in "file.txt".

9. chmod - Use this command to change the permissions of a file or directory. For example, "chmod 755 file.txt" will give read, write, and execute permissions to the owner and read and execute permissions to others.

Installing Linux on WSL

Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL) allows you to run a Linux distribution directly on your Windows computer. Here are the steps to install Linux on WSL:

  1. Open PowerShell as an administrator.
  2. Enable WSL by running the command: wsl --install.
  3. Choose a Linux distribution from the Microsoft Store and install it.
  4. Launch the installed Linux distribution and follow the setup instructions.

Once installed, you can access the Linux terminal by searching for the installed distribution in the Start menu.

Installing Linux on Proxmox

Proxmox is a powerful open-source virtualization platform that allows you to run multiple operating systems on a single server. Here's how you can install Linux on Proxmox:

  1. Download the ISO file for the Linux distribution you want to install.
  2. Create a new virtual machine in Proxmox and configure the necessary settings.
  3. Mount the ISO file as a CD/DVD drive in the virtual machine settings.
  4. Start the virtual machine and follow the installation process of the Linux distribution.

Once the installation is complete, you can access the Linux environment through Proxmox's web interface or by using a remote connection.

By familiarizing yourself with basic Linux commands and learning how to install Linux on WSL and Proxmox, you can enhance your productivity and gain a deeper understanding of this versatile operating system. Whether you're a developer, sysadmin, or simply a Linux enthusiast, these skills will prove invaluable in your journey with Linux.