During the first 4 weeks of the class, we will build a solid foundation on how to navigate a Linux operating system.
During the following 12 weeks you will learn about user administration, security, networking, processes, storage, etc.
We will train you for the job by exposing you to the scenarios you will encounter in a real work environment.
Introduces the history and significance of Linux, tracing its development by Linus Torvalds and its impact across industries like servers, mobile devices, and supercomputers. It covers the fundamentals of the Linux kernel, explaining its role and the system boot process, including the bootloader, BIOS, and system initialization. Additionally, learners will master essential Linux commands for navigating the file system, managing files, and using the vi editor for text editing.
The student will be able to understand the Linux Directory Structure by describing the hierarchical file system of Linux, including the purpose of directories such as /bin, /etc, /var, /home, /root, and /usr. Explain the significance of each key directory in terms of system operation and user interaction. It also includes applying best practices for safe file manipulation, including using interactive prompts and understanding the implications of recursive operations.
In this module, you will learn the basics of Linux user accounts: user attributes and important system files that contain bounded data (the /etc/passwd and /etc/shadow files). Best practices for creating and deleting users and groups and managing them, ensuring security compliance The module also describes the chage command to configure password aging policies and expiration settings. It will introduce learners to su, explain the benefits of su, and show how to switch users securely with su, along with the security implications of using su.
You will learn file ownership and permissions in Linux (owner, group, others, read, write, execute). Learn how to minimize permissions and explore special permission bits such as setuid, setgid, and sticky bits with chmod, chown, and umask. Access Control Lists (ACLs) are introduced in this module, including an explanation of how they can be used to manage fine-grained access to files, as well as how to manage them with setfacl and getfacl.
This module covers the Linux boot process, explaining its key stages, runlevels, and systemd targets, along with troubleshooting common boot issues. Students will learn to view and manage processes using commands like ps, top, and systemctl, interpreting system performance metrics in real time. The module also introduces process control, including sending signals with kill to manage system resources efficiently.
This module introduces Linux networking fundamentals, covering network types, IP addressing (static vs. dynamic), and network device management. Students will learn to configure and manage network connections using nmcli and configuration files while utilizing tools like ping, dig, and nslookup for network testing. Additionally, the module explores network security concepts, including firewalls, SELinux, and SSH, emphasizing best practices for secure remote access and file transfers.
Topics include basic Linux storage principles, disk layout and partitioning, as well as file system management. Learning how to set up partitions yourself using fdisk, explore Logical Volume Management (LVM), and manage file systems, including mounting and swap space. Additionally, the module explores storage tools, including tar for archiving and du for disk usage analysis, empowering students to manage storage effectively.
In this module, students learn about software package management on Linux systems, focusing on the Red Hat Package Manager (RPM). It's also about creating a repository configuration, setting up third-party repository management, and the essential differences between yum and dnf. They will learn how to fix repository issues, and manage GPG keys for security, and handle software installations and updates.
This module introduces students to Bash scripting, covering the fundamentals of shell scripts, including the shebang, variables, and output commands. Students will learn to create and execute scripts while understanding necessary permissions. The module also explores flow control mechanisms like conditionals and loops, enabling automation and efficient command execution in Linux environments.
This module trains students with essential troubleshooting skills for system administration, including how to investigate and resolve performance issues relating to CPU, memory, filesystem, and network. This creates an opportunity for students to develop best practices for identifying issues systematically, strategies for mitigating risks with data and network security, and the importance of backups and documentation. It also covers the key troubleshooting commands along with the use of system logs for effective problem resolution.
