Appendix A: Glossary of Linux Terms


This appendix provides brief explanations of common terms used in the Linux and Unix world. These include technical terms, as well as conventions used within the Linux community. Due to space limitations, this glossary is somewhat selective, but still should prove a lasting reference as well as a helpful guide for those new to Linux.

Cross-referenced terms are highlighted in italics.

Symbols

.

Symbol that, in the context of file management, refers to the current directory.

..

Symbol that, in the context of file management, refers to the parent directory of that currently being browsed.

/

Symbol that, in the context of file management, refers to the root of the file system; also separates directories in a path listing.

~

Symbol that, in the context of file management, refers to a user’s home directory.

|

Pipe symbol; used at the command prompt to pipe output from one command to another.

>

Symbol that, when used at the command prompt, indicates output should redirect into a file.

<

Symbol that, when used at the command prompt, indicates a command should take input from a file (see redirect).

#

Symbol that, when it appears on the command prompt, usually indicates the user is currently logged in as root.

$

Symbol that, when it appears on the command prompt, usually indicates the user is currently logged in as an ordinary user. (Note that SUSE Linux doesn’t follow this convention and uses a right angle bracket instead (>). Additionally, some versions of Linux/Unix use the % sign instead of $.

?

Wildcard character indicating that any character can be substituted in its place.

*

Wildcard character indicating that zero or more characters can appear in its place.

*nix

Popular but unofficial way of describing the family tree that comprises Unix and its various clones, such as Linux and Minix.




Beginning SUSE Linux from Novice to Professional
Beginning SUSE Linux: From Novice to Professional
ISBN: 1590594584
EAN: 2147483647
Year: 2005
Pages: 293
Authors: Keir Thomas

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