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Linux is an organization containing open-source UNIX like operating systems that have their basis lying upon the Linux kernel. The best thing about Linux is that it is a free and open-source operating system. It makes everyone out there able to use Linux. One can use Linux both for commercial or non-commercial reasons under GNU General Public License.
In previous times, Linux got used for personal computers only. But now things are not the same anymore. Linux gets commonly used in various machines such as mainframe computers, servers, supercomputers, and many others.
What are the Best Linux Books to read?
In the present age, Linux also gets generally used in automation control, routers, digital video recorders, smart watches, televisions, and many other things. The best achievement of Linux is Android (operating system), which has Linux kernel as its base that we usually run on our smartphones and tablets.
The Linux distribution
The Linux distribution is an operating system that comprises of several soft wares which have Linux kernel as their base. Also, supporting libraries and software aid in laying a foundation for Linux distribution. A wide range of Linux distributions is present that make more than 600 in total. A few of them are MX Linux, Linux Mint, Debian, Fedola, Ubuntu, and many others.
Best Linux Books: Our Top 20 Picks
Here are some of the best linux books that you can consider to expand your knowledge on the subject:
1. How Linux Works, 2nd Edition: What Every Superuser Should Know
How Linux Works, 2nd Edition: What Every Super user Should Know guides the user regarding the boosting of Linux system beginning from the boot loaders till the implementations. These implementations include system D, system V, and Upstart.
The author also states about the information that tells regarding the working of networking, firewalls, server’s work, and interfaces. Moreover, the author also shares detailed information on the functioning of development tools and the process of relating them to shared libraries.
Brian Ward also shares the tips to write popular shell scripts. This book is key to those who want to know them inside of Linux system. And a great piece of guidance for those who want to excel in using a Linux system.
- Authors: Brian Ward (Author)
- Publisher: No Starch Press; Second Edition (November 14, 2014)
- Pages: 392 pages
2. Linux for Beginners: An Introduction to the Linux Operating System and Command Line
Linux for Beginners: An Introduction to the Linux Operating System and Command Line enables you to learn the proper way to get access to a Linux server in case you do not have access before. It also tells about Linux distribution and the selection of appropriate Linux option.
The author also shares proper guidance regarding the type of software needed for connecting to Linux if one is a Mac or Windows user. Moreover, there is the appropriate answer to common questions related to SSH, such as the right way to use it along with information to create and use it.
Jason Canon gives a piece of detailed information about the proper layout of Linux systems and the right location to find different programs. The author also tells about the appropriate place to look for documentation and configurations.
- Authors: Jason Cannon (Author)
- Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 1st Edition (January 2, 2014)
- Pages: 202 pages
3. The Linux Programming Interface: A Linux and UNIX System Programming Handbook
The Linux Programming Interface: A Linux and UNIX System Programming Handbook gives you different descriptions for more than 500 system calls along with library functions. Moreover, it also includes over 200 example programs. Not only this, but also you can find 88 tables and 115 diagrams.
The author wants the Linux users to be able to compose files flawlessly and read them in an interrupted way. Also, the author makes readers eligible to use clocks, signals, and timers.
Michael Karris focuses on the information for creating processes and executing programs. Also, about writing correct and secure applications. Not only has this, but also about composing multithreaded programmed taking into account POSIX threads.
- Authors: Michael Kerrisk (Author)
- Publisher: No Starch Press; 1st Edition (October 28, 2010)
- Pages: 1552 pages
4. Linux Pocket Guide: Essential Commands 3rd Edition
Linux Pocket Guide: Essential Commands 3rd Edition contains information regarding shell, it’s working, and the right way to compose it. Along with this, this book also provides information related to the file system and it’s functioning.
The author focuses on spreading the knowledge of manipulating text and changing pipelines. Not only this, but also to let the readers know about backups and remote storage. Also that there is detailed information regarding viewing and controlling different types of processes.
Daniel J Barrett discusses managing the user account. He guides us through the right path to become a super user from a new user. He also shares information regarding network connections and audio plus video details. Last but not least, there is a complete description of the installation of the software.
- Authors: Daniel J. Barrett (Author)
- Publisher: O’Reilly Media; 3rd Edition (June 28, 2016)
- Pages: 272 pages
5. Linux Bible 9th Edition
The Linux Bible, the 9th Edition, tells the reader how, to begin with, Linux. It convinces the reader to switch to a permanent Linux power user from just being a beginner. Moreover, it enables a Linux power user to get access to a shell and also compose simple shell scripts.
The author wants the reader to get the administration for using Linux systems along with operating servers also that he tells the Linux user the right way of accessing multiple servers and sort out problems related to them.
Christopher Negus is determined to teach the Linux users regarding the creation of virtual machines that make use of hypervisors and cloud platforms for proper running. Last but not least, the knowledge of this book transforms a simple Linux user to enterprise Linux user.
- Authors: Christopher Negus (Author)
- Publisher: Wiley; 9th Edition (April 27, 2015)
- Pages: 912 pages
6. Linux Basics for Hackers: Getting Started with Networking, Scripting, and Security in Kali
Linux Basics for Hackers: Getting Started with Networking, Scripting, and Security in Kali is a book based on a tutorial pattern that uses the Kali Linux distribution for teaching the basics of Linux along with the use of these basics by hackers.
The author shares information regarding covering the tracks by altering the network information and changing rsyslog logging utility. Also, the author is interested in sharing how to compose a tool that scans network connections along with connecting and listening to wireless networks.
Occupy the Web focuses on how to maintain the stethiness of internet activity, taking into account Tor, VPNs, proxy servers, and encrypted mail. It also tells us regarding the use and misuse of services such as Apache, OpenSSH, MySQL, and the webserver.
- Authors: OccupyTheWeb (Author)
- Publisher: No Starch Press; Illustrated Edition (December 4, 2018)
- Pages: 248 pages
7. Linux Command Line and Shell Scripting Bible, 3rd Edition
Linux Command Line and Shell Scripting Bible, 3rd Edition, has information that is a must to learn for every Linux user. This book is essential because it lets the user get maximum benefit using a Linux system
The author tells the readers the right way to compose script utilities to automate tasks. The author also enables the user to get an idea of shell and write shell scripts.
Richard Blum explains to the users how to produce a database, how to write an email, and how to lets the readers study scripting examples beginning from basic level to advanced ones.
- Authors: Richard Blum (Author), Christine Bresnahan (Author)
- Publisher: Wiley; 3rd Edition (January 20, 2015)
- Pages: 816 pages
8. Kali Linux Revealed: Mastering the Penetration Testing Distribution
Kali Linux Revealed: Mastering the Penetration Testing Distribution provides the Linux users with mature and protected content. It has become an international level high-quality operating system.
The author aims to provide all users with a secure digital service. More than 300,000 people join Kali Linux every month and come together. To our surprise, no official manual got released by the Kali team until now.
Raphael Hertzog helps the users in getting a better knowledge of Kali and get the maximum benefit out of it. Also, the author writes about crash courses regarding basic commands and concepts of Linux.
- Authors: Raphael Hertzog (Author), Jim O’Gorman (Author)
- Publisher: Offsec Press; Illustrated Edition (June 5, 2017)
- Pages: 342 pages
9. The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition: A Complete Introduction
The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition: A Complete Introduction is a guide to create new files and delete the previous ones. Not only data but also creating new directories and symlink and removing the old ones.
The author shares information regarding the proper administration of the system, which involves different steps. These steps include networking, package installation, and process management. The author also tells about using standard input and output.
William shots focus on letting users gain knowledge of editing files using Vi (a famous text editor used throughout the world). And also, the author wants to spread awareness regarding slicing and dicing of text files using cut, paste, patch, grep, etc.
- Authors: William Shotts (Author)
- Publisher: No Starch Press; Illustrated Edition (March 7, 2019)
- Pages: 504 pages
10. Linux Kernel Development
Linux Kernel Development contains every single chapter based on the structures of kernel data, and that also updated one.
The author shares information regarding interrupt handlers along with bottom halves. The author also writes a detailed description of virtual memory along with memory allocation.
Robert Love shares some tips on how to debug the Linux kernel. The author also covers the topics of kernel synchronization and locking. All this enables the user to work at his best using the Linux kernel community.
- Authors: Robert Love (Author)
- Publisher: Addison-Wesley Professional; 3rd Edition (June 22, 2010)
- Pages: 468 pages
11. Linux in a Nutshell: A Desktop Quick Reference
Linux in a Nutshell: A Desktop Quick Reference states the procedure for availing Linux commands to administer the system and manage the network.
The author explains several shell commands that are present Linux and are essential for the system. It also describes the procedure to get knowledge about the bash shell command-line interpreter.
Ellen Siever describes the proper procedure for searching and processing text using common expressions. And also the management of servers taking into account virtualization using Xen and VMware.
- Authors: Ellen Siever (Author), Stephen Figgins (Author), Robert Love (Author), Arnold Robbins (Author)
- Publisher: O’Reilly Media; Sixth Edition (October 6, 2009)
- Pages: 944 pages
12. Linux Essentials, Second Edition
Linux Essentials, Second Edition lays down a firm basis for all those people who are towards getting a career affiliated with information technology. And it is also very beneficial for those who are beginners for the Linux operating system.
The author states things that prove fruitful for the people who are ready to take the Linux Essential Exam. The author lists various exercises, review questions that are very effective in achieving our aims.
Christine Bresnahan wants to boost the confidence level of those who are about to take the Linux Essential Exam. The author also adds that Linux is a secure substitute for all other operating systems.
- Authors: Christine Bresnahan (Author), Richard Blum (Contributor)
- Publisher: John Wiley & Sons; 2nd Edition (September 4, 2015)
- Pages: 368 pages
13. A Practical Guide to Linux Commands, Editors, and Shell Programming (4th Edition)
A Practical Guide to Linux Commands, Editors, and Shell Programming (4th Edition) delivers MariaDB chapter to let people begin with a relational database management system (RDBMS), which is considered the key to success in database management.
The author gives a complete introduction to Python that is favorite to most of the administrators and power users. Along with providing detailed information regarding different types of shells, discussing the environment, locality, shell programming, and inheritance.
Mark G. Sobell takes aid from practical explanations of core utilities beginning from Aspell till xargs. These explanations include printf, sshfs/curlftpfs, PLUS macOS. The author also gives expert advice on automating remote backups considering rsync.
- Authors: Mark G. Sobell (Author), Matthew Helmke (Author)
- Publisher: Addison-Wesley Professional; 4th Edition (November 19, 2017)
- Pages: 1232 pages
14. Linux: Installation, Configuration, and Command-Line Basics
Linux: Installation, Configuration, and Command-Line Basics have a lot of critical topics, including what Linux is starting from UNIX to Linux. Also a detailed history of Linux along with its range of use and certifications.
The author discusses software licenses and the application of Linux daily. Also, explaining the distribution of Linux and the proper method to set up a Linux system.
Nathan Clark enables the users to know about different steps that are a must to learn in the installation of Linux. Also about the addition of the graphical user interface and additional software.
- Authors: Nathan Clark (Author)
- Publisher: Nathan Clark (September 15, 2018)
- Pages: 121 pages
15. CompTIA Linux+ Study Guide: Exam XK0-004 4th Edition
CompTIA Linux+ Study Guide: Exam XK0-004 4th Edition is a complete guide to hardware and system configuration. It also tells us about the system operations and the appropriate maintenance of security levels.
The author also shares details about the Linux troubleshooting process and the right way to deal with its diagnostics. It also gives information regarding the operation of automation and the method of scripting.
Christine Brednahan aims to provide the students for preparing Exam XK0-004, including all the compulsory objectives that might prove helpful. It also covers various assessment tests, exercise, chapter review questions, real-world scenarios, and much more.
- Authors: Christine Bresnahan (Author), Richard Blum (Author)
- Publisher: Sybex; 4th Edition (July 18, 2019)
- Pages: 928 pages
16. Linux: Linux for Beginners Guide to Learn Linux Command Line, Linux Operating System, and Linux Commands
Linux: Linux for Beginners Guide to Learn Linux Command Line, Linux Operating System, and Linux Commands describes the process that gets carried out for installing virtual machines. Also telling about the Linux directory structure. Moreover, the book shares all about the shell.
The author lets the users know the commands that get commonly used in Linux—also telling more about the file permissions and the directory permissions.
Josh Thompson discusses environmental variables that get linked to Linux. This book contains all the necessary information that a beginner needs to master Linux services.
- Authors: Josh Thompsons (Author)
- Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (May 29, 2017)
- Pages: 130 pages
17. Your Linux Toolbox
Your Linux Toolbox contains several taglines like bite-size Linux, networking, ACK, etc. The book also showers light upon the Linux debugging tools that a majority of people prefer.
The author writes on spying one’s programs with strace, and also profiling and locating with perfection. The author also notes the traveling of GIFs from a remote server to one’s computer.
Julia Evans writes this book to let people discover the basics of Linux and its functioning. The author mentions a lot of tips and tactics that are helpful in this regard.
- Authors: Julia Evans (Author)
- Publisher: No Starch Press (August 27, 2019)
18. Linux System Programming: Talking Directly To The Kernel And C Library
Linux System Programming: Talking directly to the Kernel and C Library has various topics, including A Linux kernel, C compiler overview, and C library. It also includes different basic I/O operations that begin from writing and ends in files.
The author shares advanced I/O interfaces, optimizing strategies, and memory mapping. Not only this, but it also tells us about the essential process management via the organization of system calls.
Robert Love writes regarding high-level process management, which covers real-time procedures. The author also shares information regarding thread concepts, Pthreads, and even multithreaded programming.
- Authors: Robert Love (Author)
- Publisher: O’Reilly Media; Second Edition (June 11, 2013)
- Pages: 456 pages
19. Mastering Linux Shell Scripting: A practical guide to Linux command-line, Bash scripting, and Shell programming, 2nd Edition
Mastering Linux Shell Scripting: A practical guide to Linux command-line, Bash scripting, and Shell programming, and 2nd Edition contains a proper table of contents including what and why of a script with bash.
The author also mentions the conditions linked with using Linux; the ways opted for creating building elements with functions.
Mokhtar Ebrahim Gives an introduction to sed, talks about AWK basics, and shares about the use of python. Also talking about the ways to create Interactive scripts.
- Authors: Mokhtar Ebrahim (Author), Andrew Mallett (Author)
- Publisher: Packt Publishing; 2nd edition (April 19, 2018)
- Pages: 284 pages
20. Learn Kali Linux 2019: Perform powerful penetration testing using Kali Linux, Metasploit, Nessus, Nmap, and Wireshark
Learn Kali Linux 2019: Perform powerful penetration testing using Kali Linux, Metasploit, Nessus, Nmap, and Wireshark enables the reader to learn about the basics of a specific type of hacking which we call ethical hacking.
The author aims to teach users to learn the installation and configuration of Kali Linux. Also, to enable the Linux user to fasten his speed in carrying out wireless network pentesting. Along with this, the author wants the users to learn active and passive information gathering.
Glen D Singh wants the users to learn decoding WPA, WEP, and WPA2 encryptions taking into account the ARP request replay attack, the fake authentication attack, and the dictionary attack. This book is exclusively beneficial for IT security professionals and security consultants.
- Authors: Glen D. Singh (Author)
- Publisher: Packt Publishing (November 14, 2019)
- Pages: 550 pages
Choosing the Best Linux Books
We can conclude that there are many pros and cons of the Linux operating system that must get considered before you decide to become a Linux user. The advantage of Linux is that it is an open-source operating system. It means that one can easily avail of the source code. Also that the user has the right to change further and pass the code to anyone he desires. Also that we can freely use Linux on the browser. There is natural and friendly software that gets uploaded on Linux.
Moreover, Linux has excellent community support. It takes care of the privacy of the user. We can also say that Linux is user friendly. In opposite to this, the disadvantage of Linux is that beginners find it challenging to understand Linux. And if we compare the peripheral hardware drivers, we find that those of Linux is small as compared to those of Windows. So one must take a firm decision before he wants to become a Linux user.