Instead of Learning all Linux Commands, Take this Smart Route.

Don’t learn every Linux command.

Let me explain.

I decided to learn Linux for the first time when I saw that my team’s 2025 learning and development strategy highlighted Linux as the first skill on the list. The strategy included various learning resources, and I noticed that the Linux Foundation Certified Sysadmin (LFCS) course was recommended. However, the certification fee was quite steep. Since I like to learn ahead of my team, I turned to YouTube for tutorials on Linux and started reading Linux for Hackers as a supplement.

Learning Linux for the first time, I focused earnestly on the LFCS tutorial and tried to cover every topic because it was comprehensive. However, in hindsight, I realize I could have optimized my learning by focusing on the commands and concepts used regularly in real-world scenarios. Not every topic was essential, and trying to memorize everything added unnecessary memory workload.

Ultimately, the key to mastering Linux efficiently is understanding the fundamental commands that system administrators will frequently use. For less common commands, it’s perfectly fine to look them up when needed. You don’t have to know everything upfront!

Here’s a list of common Linux commands that are frequently used by administrators:

1. ls, ls -l, ls -la

The ls command lists the files and directories in the current directory. The ls -l option provides a detailed listing, including file properties, while ls -la also shows you hidden files.

2. pwd

Displays the current working directory.

3. cp, mv, rm

These commands allow you to copy (cp), move (mv), or remove (rm) files and directories.

4. ps / top

ps shows the currently running processes, while top displays the processes using the most system resources.

5. cat, less, more

These commands display the contents of a file. less shows a portion of the file, and more shows as much as the screen can hold and scroll.

6. touch

Creates a new, empty file.

7. cd

Changes the current directory to a specified one.

8. man, --help, -h

These commands provide help or documentation on other commands. They are your go-to for understanding command syntax and usage examples.

9. chmod, chgrp, chown

These commands are used to change file or directory permissions. chmod adjusts permissions, chgrp changes a file’s group, and chown changes the owner.

10. grep

Searches for patterns within files and outputs the matching lines.

11. useradd

Allows you to add a new user to the system.

12. ssh

Enables you to log in to a Linux system remotely.

13. systemctl

Manages system services, allowing you to start, stop, or restart services.

14. ping / traceroute

ping checks network connectivity, while traceroute shows the path packets take to reach their destination.

15. ifconfig / ip

Displays or configures network interfaces. ifconfig is older and has been mostly replaced by ip in newer Linux systems.

16. userdel / usermod

As an admin, these commands allow you to delete (userdel) or modify (usermod) users.

17. apt update / yum update / dnf update

Used to install software updates. The command differs based on your Linux distribution (apt for Debian-based, yum for Red Hat-based, and dnf for newer Fedora systems).

18. crontab

Enables you to view or schedule tasks (jobs) to run at specific dates and times.

19. sudo

Executes commands with superuser (root) privileges.

20. find

Searches for files and directories based on specified criteria.

Final Thoughts

When learning Linux, focus on the most frequently used commands and concepts. Not only will this help you avoid information overload, but it will also allow you to become more efficient in your day-to-day tasks. Remember, you don’t have to memorize everything. With practice and regular use, you’ll naturally become more comfortable, and for the occasional obscure command, you can always look it up!