Glossary
Plain, one-line explanations of Linux terms you will run into while learning.
- DAC
- An access control model where the file owner decides who else gets access (Discretionary Access Control).
- directory
- A container that organizes files. Same idea as a "folder" on Windows or macOS.
- environment variable
- A named value that the shell or a program can look up while running.
- kernel
- The core program of an OS. It bridges hardware and software.
- login shell
- The first shell started right after a user logs in.
- MAC
- A system-wide access control model enforced by fixed rules (Mandatory Access Control).
- package manager
- A tool that installs and updates software for you in one place.
- path
- A string that describes the location of a file or directory.
- permission
- The read / write / execute access rules set on a file or directory.
- prompt
- A symbol (like $ or #) shown when the shell is waiting for your input.
- quote
- Wrapping a string in quote marks (' or ") so it is treated as one single value, e.g. one with spaces in it.
- root
- The special administrator account allowed to do anything on the system.
- shell
- An interactive program that reads the commands you type and runs them.