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15 Lesser-Known but Powerful Linux Commands You Need to Know
Boost Your Productivity with These Hidden Linux Commands for Better Efficiency and Control
Introduction
For many Linux users, the command line is an essential tool for managing and interacting with their systems. While common commands like ls, cd, cp, and grep are well-known, there are lesser-known commands and options that can make your Linux experience more powerful and efficient. In this article, we’ll dive into some hidden gems of the Linux command line that can elevate your workflow and expand your command-line toolbox.
1. ncdu (NCurses Disk Usage)
What It Does: ncdu is a disk usage analyzer that provides a user-friendly way to navigate and understand disk space usage in your system.
How to Use:
sudo apt install ncdu
ncdu /Why It’s Useful: Unlike du, which can produce a lot of output, ncdu provides an interactive and visual way to identify which directories are taking up the most space. Perfect for quickly reclaiming disk space on a cluttered system.
2. htop (Interactive Process Viewer)
What It Does: htop is an interactive process viewer that’s more advanced than top, providing a colorful, real-time overview of running processes, CPU, and memory usage.
How to Use:
sudo apt install htop
htopWhy It’s Useful: Unlike top, htop lets you scroll vertically and horizontally, making it easy to navigate processes and see full command lines. It also supports mouse interactions for ease of use.
3. bat (A Cat Alternative)
What It Does: bat is a modern replacement for cat, with syntax highlighting and Git integration.
How to Use:
sudo apt install bat
bat filename.txtWhy It’s Useful: If you work with code or configuration files, bat highlights syntax and shows line numbers, making it easier to read and debug.
