Skip to content

Linux on Turing

TLDR

Turing runs on Linux, specifically Ubuntu 20.04.6 LTS. Essential commands include ls to list files, cd to change directories, mkdir to create directories, ssh and scp for remote access and file transfer, and nano for text editing.

Turing runs on Linux, specifically Ubuntu 20.04.6 LTS. To use Turing effectively, you'll need to know some basics of navigating a text-based Linux environment.

Terminology

  • 🖥️ Terminal/Bash: A command-line interface where users type instructions to interact with the operating system, automate tasks, and run scripts. The default shell on Turing is bash.
  • 📂 Directory: A folder in the file system used to organize and store files. Think of directories as containers for other files and subdirectories. For example, /home/gompei is a directory that might contain your project files.
  • 💻 Command: Instructions you type in the bash terminal to perform tasks, such as listing files or creating directories. Type the command in your terminal and press Enter/Return to execute it.

Essential Commands

Here are some fundamental Linux commands to get started:

  1. 📄 ls: Lists files and directories in the current directory. 

    ls
    Use ls -l for a detailed list or ls -a to include hidden files.

  2. 📂 cd: Changes the current directory. 

    cd /path/to/directory
    Use cd ~ to return to your home directory or cd .. to move up one level.

  3. 📁 mkdir: Creates a new directory. 

    mkdir new_directory_name
    Example: mkdir my_project.

  4. 🔐 ssh: Connects to a remote system via Secure Shell. 

    ssh gompei@turing.wpi.edu

  5. 📤 scp: Securely copies files between your local system and a remote server and vice cersa. 

    scp file.txt gompei@turing.wpi.edu:~/remote/path
    Use it to transfer files to or from Turing.

  6. ✏️ nano: A simple text editor for modifying files directly in the terminal. 

    nano filename.txt
    Note that if filename.txt doesnt already exist this will create it. Use Ctrl+O to save and Ctrl+X to exit.

Terminal Usage Pro Tips

  • 🚀 Tab Completion: Press Tab to autocomplete commands and file/directory names.
  • 🔄 Up Arrow: Scroll through your command history.
  • 📖 man <command>: View the manual for any command (e.g., man ls).