Linux Resources for Beginners
A comprehensive list of Linux resources to get you started - Many are Free!
LINUXBEGINNER
Andrea Harston
12/16/20242 min read


If you're diving into cybersecurity, understanding operating systems is criticalβand Linux is a must-know. As an open-source, community-driven operating system, Linux is a versatile tool for system administrators and pentesters alike.
This curated list of resources will help you start your Linux journey and build your pen testing and system administration skills.
β οΈ Disclaimer:
This content is for educational purposes only.
Any mention of pen testing refers to legal vulnerability assessments performed to enhance cybersecurity, not for malicious purposes. Always uphold the highest standards of ethics.
What is Linux?
Get a foundational understanding of Linux with these beginner-friendly resources:
π What is Linux? (TechTarget)
π What is Linux? (Linux.com)
Installation Guides
Learn how to Install Various Linux Distros, if you want your own instance to play around with.
Note: There are multiple installation techniques. You may find a specific way that works for you. You can set up your distros using virtual box or UTM or some other virtualization software. You can also partition your machine with manual partitions. I find the easiest way is to use a visualization software.
π Install Kali Linux
πHow to Install Linux in 2024 - A Beginners Guide by Michael Horn
π To Install Kali Linux 2022 On M1 / M2 Mac Using UTM (EASY WAY) by KSK Royal
Linux for Beginners
Jumpstart your learning with these beginner resources:
π Linux Handbook
π Linux Journey by Cindy Quach
π Your Linux Guide by LinuxOpSys
π Crash Course for Beginners (freeCodeCamp)
π Linux Full Course for Beginners (freeCodeCamp)
π How Linux Works by Gwyneth PeΓ±a-Siguenza
π NDG Linux Unhatched (Netacad)
π PentesterLab (Free Badges)
π Hack The Box Academy (Free and Paid Content)
πIntroduction to Linux: A Hands on Guide by Machtelt Garrels
π Linux in 5 Days by JASON CANNON
π Fundamentals by Paul Cobbaut
π Fundamentals by Cloud Acadamy
π Fundamentals by TryHackMe
π Parrot Security Docs: βIt includes a full portable arsenal for IT security and digital forensics operations. It also includes everything you need to develop your own programs or protect your privacy while surfing the netβ
Mind Maps, Tips and Cheat Sheets:
π Linux Tips (C.S. by G.B.)
π Linux Command Line Cheat Sheet (Nathan House, StationX)
π Linux Commands Mind Map (kPastor)
Bash Scripting
Master the Linux command line and automate tasks with Bash scripting:
π What is Bash? (Opensource)
π Bash for Beginners (Microsoft Developer)
π Bash Scripting Full Course (LinuxHint)
Hands-On Practice
Learn by doing with these interactive platforms:
π CMD Challenge by John Jarvis
π Over the Wire by Steven Van Acker & Morla
Hacking with Linux
Explore tools and tips for pentesting with Linux:
π Useful Commands and Tools for Pentest (C.S. by G.B.)
π Linux for Hackers by Chuck Keith (aka NetworkChuck)
π Learn Linux on HackTheBox (Blog Post)
π Top Kali Linux Tools for Hacking (ITβs Foss)
Want to Go Further?
Deepen your Linux knowledge and skills with this comprehensive course:
π The Linux Basics Course: Beginner to Sysadmin (Tutorial Linux)
π Linux Foundation (The Linux Foundation had partnered with edX.org to provide free online-learning courses on a range of open source topics from Linux to blockchain, networking to cloud, and everything in between. Designed for beginners, these Linux courses are a great way to gain familiarity with a new technology before moving on to some of our more advanced courses.)