Moving beyond basic Bash

SHELL GAMES

Article from Issue 111/2010
Author(s):

Even beginners can benefit from a greater understanding of the Bash shell’s many builtin commands.

Most GNU/ Linux users know that the command line uses Bash (Bourne Again Shell), but what fewer know is that, by default, they use the plainest version of Bash. The truth is that Bash is a command much like any other. It might be the command that runs other commands – a command interpreter – but, just like any other command, its behavior can be radically altered by the options you add when starting it up or by running some of its built-in commands (builtins). Moreover, you can even choose an entirely different shell through which to interact with your system.

Buy this article as PDF

Express-Checkout as PDF
Price $2.95
(incl. VAT)

Buy Linux Magazine

SINGLE ISSUES
 
SUBSCRIPTIONS
 
TABLET & SMARTPHONE APPS
Get it on Google Play

US / Canada

Get it on Google Play

UK / Australia

Related content

  • Bash Alternatives

    Don't let your familiarity with the Bash shell stop you from exploring other options. We take a look at a pair of alternatives that are easy to install and easy to use: Zsh and fish.

  • Command Line

    A few basic tricks can liven up the command line and add a dash of color to your console.

  • Command Line: Customizing Bash

    Ease into your comfort zone with these tips for customizing Bash.

  • Two Simple .bashrc Tweaks
  • Bash 4

    Despite the Bourne-again shell's biblical age and high level of maturity, developers continue to work on it. We take a look at the latest Bash release.

comments powered by Disqus
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters

Support Our Work

Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

Learn More

News