Resources & Services: Computing
Basic Unix Commands
Once you have logged in to the server using a command line application there are a few commands you will need to know in order to function.
Change Directories - cd
cd is the command to use when you want to change your current directory.
List Directory Contents - ls
Typing ls at the command prompt will display a list of all the files and subfolders within your current directory. Typing ls -la will provide a more detailed listing showing hidden files, file permissions, differentiate files from folders, file ownership and more.
Create a Directory - mkdir
Typing mkdir folder-name will create a new folder in the current location.
Delete a Directory - rmdir
To remove a directory type rmdir folder-name. Note, the folder must be empty for this command to work.
Delete a file - rm
To delete a specific file type rm file-name.
Change your password - passwd
When logged in to the server that you wish to change your password on, type passwd youruserid. You will then be prompted to enter your old password. After you have done this you will be prompted twice to enter your new password.