What is Linux Terminal

A terminal is a Linux tool used for running command-line apps, scripts, or programs. There can be different types of terminals on different versions of Linux.

Ways to open Linux Terminal

• Right-click on Desktop and select terminal
• Using (ctrl + alt + t) key combination
• From apps menu under system tools submenu

Where to use Terminal in Linux

• To run apps without GUI in command line only mode
• To run apps with secured user privileges
• SSH login to another system from a network
• To run shell scripts (.sh files)
• For software installation or upgrading
• For editing files or scripts
• To run system apps, tools

Advantages of Linux Terminal

• Faster than GUI software
• Full control over running software/apps
• Secure login over network
• Running tasks as a specific user
• User need to manually enter commands
• No friend/relative can mess up as he may not know commands
• Every time asks for a password for privileged command
• Free of ads that may exist on GUI software/apps

Example of the terminal in Linux

• Gnome terminal
• Konsole
• Xterm
• Lxterminal
• Xterm
• Tilda
• Terminator

These are various terminals just for example. Each flavor/version of Linux gave different terminals including these or some others. Basic things are the same, just UI functions, styles differ.

Also read | Linux Terminology basics you need to know

Related terms

SSH

SSH is short for the secure shell which is used for log in to a Linux system over a network. A system may be over a local network or a remote network.

CMD

CMD or command-line interface is the interface or area in any Linux system where a user interacts over by entering the command.

GUI

GUI or graphical user interface is an interface where the user interacts with the system using graphical elements like forms buttons and more.

Summary

So, this was for now for today. I hope the content will help you. Feel free to share your views in the comments below. Keep checking for more parts in this series.

Originally published at https://tekraze.com/2020/12/using-terminal-in-linux-infographics/