Linux Foundations: Learning History, Architecture, and Installation

Course Description

This foundational course is your perfect starting point for mastering Linux, the powerhouse operating system that runs the majority of the world's servers, cloud infrastructure, and supercomputers. We will begin by exploring the fundamentals of operating systems, the history of open-source software, and the origins of Linux itself. You will then dive into the core architecture of Linux, understanding its key components, the boot process, and the diverse landscape of Linux distributions. The course culminates with practical, hands-on experience, guiding you through installing Linux on a desktop and setting up and accessing your own Linux server on the AWS cloud.

Who is this course for

This course is designed for absolute beginners with no prior Linux experience. It is the ideal first step for:

• Aspiring IT Professionals: Anyone aiming for a career in system administration, network engineering, or cybersecurity.

• Future Software Developers: Programmers who need to understand the environment where their applications will be deployed.

• Cloud & DevOps Beginners: Individuals starting their journey in cloud computing (AWS, Azure, GCP) or DevOps, where Linux proficiency is essential.

• Computer Science Students: Students looking for a practical, hands-on understanding of operating system concepts.

• Tech Enthusiasts: Anyone curious about learning the command line and exploring the world of open-source software.

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain Core Concepts: Define what an operating system is and articulate the history and significance of Linux and the open-source movement.

• Describe Linux Architecture: Identify the core components of the Linux OS, explain the boot process, and differentiate between various Linux distributions.

• Understand Virtualization: Differentiate between a hypervisor and a virtual machine in the context of Linux.

• Install Linux: Successfully perform a fresh installation of a Linux distribution on a desktop computer.

• Manage a Cloud Server: Create and access a Linux virtual server (EC2 instance) on the AWS cloud using SSH.

Prerequisites

There are no formal prerequisites for this course. You only need:

1. Basic Computer Literacy: Familiarity with using a personal computer (Windows or macOS).

2. No prior command-line or programming experience is required.

3. An eagerness to learn and explore new technology.

Course outline

Section 1: Introduction to Linux

1. What is an Operating System and Its Use?

2. Most Popular Operating Systems

3. Introduction to Open-Source Software and Different Types

4. History of Operating Systems

5. Introduction to the Linux OS

6. Components of the OS (Linux)

7. Significance and Advantages of Linux

8. QUIZ: Introduction to Linux

Section 2: Types of Linux

1. Linux OS Distribution Families (Debian, Red Hat, Arch)

2. Linux on a Hypervisor vs. in a Virtual Machine (VM)

3. Understanding Different Linux Architectures

4. PIC Components of a System

5. The Linux Boot Process Explained

6. QUIZ: Types of Linux

Section 3: Linux Setup and Accessing

1. Linux Installation on a Desktop

2. Lab: Creating an EC2 Linux Server on the AWS Console

3. Lab: Accessing the AWS EC2 Server using SSH

4. QUIZ: Linux Setup and Accessing3

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