The course is designed to equip software developers with essential Linux command-line skills that are crucial for daily development tasks. It emphasizes practical, real-world applications, helping developers become more efficient and confident when working in Linux environments. By mastering these tools, learners will improve their productivity and streamline their development workflow.

The Software Developer's Guide to Linux

Recommended experience
What you'll learn
Master essential command-line tools and techniques to improve development efficiency
Understand how Linux environments operate and apply that knowledge in practical scenarios
Leverage shell scripting and Docker to automate and streamline development tasks
Details to know

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February 2026
17 assignments
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There are 17 modules in this course
In this section, we explore the command-line interface (CLI) structure, distinguish between shell and command line, and apply basic command syntax for navigation and system interaction.
What's included
2 videos5 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore Linux processes, their attributes like PID and EUID, and tools such as ps, lsof, and signals for managing and troubleshooting running programs.
What's included
1 video3 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore systemd service management using systemctl, analyze service status, and configure service behavior for efficient Linux system administration.
What's included
1 video2 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore shell history navigation, configuration file customization, and command-line shortcuts to enhance efficiency and reduce repetitive tasks.
What's included
1 video1 reading1 assignment
In this section, we explore Linux file structures, types, and operations, focusing on practical commands and editing techniques for efficient development and troubleshooting.
What's included
1 video5 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore nano and vim text editing techniques, focusing on efficient patterns, workflow efficiency, and cross-tool adaptability for command-line productivity.
What's included
1 video3 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore Linux user and group management, covering creation, modification, and permissions.
What's included
1 video3 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore Linux file permissions, ownership, and commands like chown and chmod to manage access control and system security effectively.
What's included
1 video2 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore Linux package managers, secure software installation, updates, removal, and compiling from source.
What's included
1 video3 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore Linux configuration hierarchy, command-line arguments, environment variables, and systemd integration.
What's included
1 video3 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore pipes, file descriptors, and I/O redirection to build efficient command-line workflows using tools like awk, sort, and uniq.
What's included
1 video7 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore Bash scripting basics, including shebangs, script execution, and testing for automation and system control.
What's included
1 video5 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore SSH fundamentals, including public key cryptography, key-based authentication, and tunneling for secure remote access.
What's included
1 video6 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore Git setup, terminology, and advanced concepts like bisecting and rebasing.
What's included
1 video5 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore Docker container workflows, image creation with Dockerfiles, and container vs. VM differences to enable consistent application deployment and isolation across environments.
What's included
1 video7 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore Linux logging with systemd and journald, analyze system and service logs using journalctl, and configure structured logging for effective troubleshooting.
What's included
1 video4 readings1 assignment
In this section, we explore HTTP troubleshooting with curl, analyze common status code pitfalls, and design effective header handling strategies for real-world web development.
What's included
1 video6 readings1 assignment
Instructor

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Felipe M.

Jennifer J.

Larry W.

Chaitanya A.

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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can preview the first video and view the syllabus before you enroll. You must purchase the course to access content not included in the preview.
If you decide to enroll in the course before the session start date, you will have access to all of the lecture videos and readings for the course. You’ll be able to submit assignments once the session starts.
Once you enroll and your session begins, you will have access to all videos and other resources, including reading items and the course discussion forum. You’ll be able to view and submit practice assessments, and complete required graded assignments to earn a grade and a Course Certificate.
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