Frequently Used Terminal Commands

Change Directory
Category: File Management
User inputs: ‘Directory path’ in place of brackets below
				
					cd [directory]
				
			

Example:

cd /home/exampleuser/projects/myproject
The “Change Directory” command, commonly known as “cd,” is an essential tool in file management within a command-line interface, allowing users to navigate between different directories in a file system. By changing the current working directory, users can access and manage files and subdirectories within the specified location. To execute this command, a directory path must be provided as input, which specifies the target directory to which the user wishes to move. This path can be absolute, starting from the root directory, or relative, based on the current directory’s location. The command is executed using the syntax “cd [directory],” where “[directory]” is replaced with the desired path. This functionality is crucial for efficiently organizing and accessing files, especially in environments where graphical user interfaces are unavailable or impractical. Understanding and utilizing the “cd” command effectively can significantly enhance a user’s ability to manage files and directories in a streamlined and organized manner.
List Files
Category: File Management
				
					ls -la
				
			

Example:

cd /example/directory && ls -la
The SSH command “List Files” is a fundamental tool in file management, allowing users to view all files within the current directory, including hidden ones, which are typically prefixed with a dot (.). This command is executed using ‘ls -la’, where ‘ls’ stands for ‘list’, and the flags ‘-la’ enhance its functionality. The ‘-l’ flag provides a detailed listing format, displaying comprehensive information about each file, such as permissions, number of links, owner, group, size, and timestamp of last modification. The ‘-a’ flag ensures that all files, including those hidden, are shown. This command is particularly useful for users who need to manage files on remote servers via SSH, as it provides a clear and detailed overview of the directory’s contents, facilitating efficient navigation and management of files. By understanding and utilizing the ‘ls -la’ command, users can effectively monitor and organize their file systems, ensuring that no file, hidden or otherwise, is overlooked.