UNIX Command Line

UNIX is a text based Operating System, at least as most "Dialup Users" experience it. This means that all instructions are entered via the "command-line". This is quite similar to the DOS command prompt. A few commands will allow you to do most of what is neccesary for most Web projects.

File System Operations

cd: Change Directory

"cd directoryname" changes the current directory to subdirectory directoryname.
"cd .." changes current directory to next directory containing current directory: 'up a directory'
"cd username" returns to your home directory, if you get lost.

ls: list Files in current Directory

"ls" lists all the files in the current directory.
"ls -l" includes more detailed information, such as File Permissions.

mkdir: Make Directory

"mkdir directoryname" creates a new subdirectory (of the current directory) named directoryname.

pwd: Print Working Directory

"pwd" displays the full path information for the currrent directory.

Text Files

pico: Edit Text Files

"pico filename" Opens the PICO text editor, and loads (or creates) the Text file filename.

more: View Text Files

"more filename" displays Text file filename one page at a time.

System Commands

chmod: Change Mode (File Access Permissions)

"chmod 744 filename" sets full access for owner, read only access for everyone else.

logout: End Telnet Session

"logout" returns you to your physical location, and you should do it often.