Software Engineering Lecture 1 Intro
Software Engineering Lecture 1 Intro
Introduction to to Linux OS
Lecturer: [Your Name] | Date: May 2025
Course Overview
• This module introduces students to the Linux Operating
System, focusing on system structure, command line usage, file
systems, and administration.
• Students will learn to navigate and operate within a Linux
environment efficiently.
• Hands-on sessions will develop practical skills in using Linux for
both desktop and server environments.
Why Learn Linux?
• Linux powers the majority of servers, cloud infrastructure, and
embedded systems.
• Open-source nature allows deep customization and learning.
• Essential for careers in system administration, cybersecurity,
DevOps, and software development.
Questions and discussions
• Have you used Linux before? If so, which distro?
• Have you written any commands before?
• What do you expect to gain from learning Linux?
• Any concerns or areas you want to focus on?
• What has been more interesting?
• Any concerns about working in a command-line environment?
• Where should we start?
• Are you ready for the exam based on what you have learned?
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this module, students should be able to:
• Understand the Linux operating system architecture.
• Use the command line interface (CLI) to manage files and
directories.
• Understand user and permission management.
• Perform basic administrative tasks.
• Install and configure Linux-based systems.
Tools & Requirements
• Operating Systems: Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, or any major
Linux distro.
• Software: VirtualBox or VMware for virtualization (if Linux isn’t
the host OS).
• Terminal Emulators: GNOME Terminal, Konsole, or PuTTY (for
remote access).
• Reference: The Linux Command Line by William Shotts
(available free online).
Course Structure
• Week 1–2: Introduction to Linux, Installation, and Shell Basics
• Week 3–4: File System Structure and File Management
• Week 5–6: User Management, Permissions, and Processes
• Week 7–8: Shell Scripting and Package Management
• Week 9–10: Networking and System Services
Assessment:
• Labs (30%)
• Mid-term Test (20%)
• Final Exam (50%)
What is Linux?
• Linux is a Unix-like, open-source operating system kernel
created by Linus Torvalds in 1991.
• It forms the basis of various distributions (distros) such as
Ubuntu, Red Hat, and Arch.
• Unlike Windows or macOS, Linux gives users more control over
the system.
Linux vs. Other OS
• Linux is open-source; Windows/macOS are proprietary.
• Stronger emphasis on command-line interface in Linux.
• Greater customizability and strong community support.
• Superior stability and performance for servers and embedded
systems.
Basic Linux Concepts
• Kernel: Core part of the OS managing hardware and system
calls.
• Shell: Interface between the user and the kernel (e.g., bash,
zsh).
• File System Hierarchy: /bin, /etc, /home, /var, /usr, etc.
• Permissions: Read (r), Write (w), Execute (x) — applied to user,
group, and others.
Example – First Linux Commands
Here are some essential commands:
• pwd – Print working directory
• ls – List directory contents
• cd – Change directory
• mkdir – Create a new directory
• touch – Create a new file
• rm – Remove files or directories
• man – Access manual pages (e.g., man ls)
Next Class Preview
• Next session will cover Linux file system hierarchy and file
management commands in detail.
• Students will practice navigating the file system and
manipulating files using the CLI.
• Bring your laptop with a Linux environment installed or ready
in VirtualBox.