View source for Tutorial 1 - Using Your Matrix Account

= USING YOUR MATRIX ACCOUNT =
== Main Objectives of this Tutorial ==
<ul>
     <li>Learn how to access your Matrix server account from a remote computer.</li>
     <li>Learn several ways to exit your Matrix Linux Account session.</li>
     <li>Understand the Linux command structure and how to get help with Linux command usage.</li>
     <li>Become efficient with Linux command line editing by using short-cut keys.</li>
     <li>Issue a checking program (i.e. Shell Script) to confirm that you accessed your Matrix account.</li>
     <li>Perform LINUX PRACTICE QUESTIONS for additional practice</li>
</ul>
<br>

=== Tutorial Reference Material ===

{|width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="10"

|- valign="top"

|colspan="2" style="font-size:16px;font-weight:bold;border-bottom: thin solid black;border-spacing:0px;"|Course Notes / Software<br>

|colspan="2" style="font-size:16px;font-weight:bold;border-bottom: thin solid black;border-spacing:0px;padding-left:15px;"|Linux Command / Shortcut Reference<br>

|- valign="top" style="padding-left:15px;"

|colspan="2" |Slides:<ul><li>[https://matrix.senecacollege.ca/~osl640/slides/OSL640-Week1.pdf PDF] | [https://matrix.senecacollege.ca/~osl640/slides/OSL640-Week1.pptx PPTX]</li></ul>Windows SSH client Software:<ul><li>[http://www.sfsu.edu/ftp/win/ssh/SSHSecureShellClient-3.2.9.exe SSH/SFTP]</li><li>[https://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/latest.html Putty]</li><li>[https://www.bitvise.com/ssh-client-download Bitvise SSH Client]</li><li>[https://mobaxterm.mobatek.net/download-home-edition.html MovaXterm]</li></ul>

|  style="padding-left:15px;" |Matrix Account Access
*[https://ss64.com/bash/logout.html logout , exit]<br>
*[https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-difference-between-typing-Ctrl+C-and-Ctrl+D-in-the-Linux-terminal &lt;ctrl&gt;&lt;d&gt;]
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/passwd.1.html passwd]<br>
Command Line Editing
*[https://www.ostechnix.com/list-useful-bash-keyboard-shortcuts/ Bash Shell Shortcut Keys]<br>
|  style="padding-left:15px;"|General Linux Commands
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/pwd.1.html pwd]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/cd.1p.html cd]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/ls.1p.html ls]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/cal.1.html cal]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/date.1.html date]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/who.1.html who] , [http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/w.1.html w]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/whoami.1.html whoami ,who am i]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/clear.1.html clear , &lt;ctrl&gt;&lt;l&gt;]<br>

|}

== KEY CONCEPTS ==
=== Purpose of Having a Matrix Linux Server Account ===
While attending Seneca College, you will be using many different computer systems. Some of these servers include:

{|width="100%" cellspacing="0"

|-
| style="padding-left:0px;width:10%" |'''my.senecacollege.ca'''
| style="padding-left:15px;width:65%" |Learning Content Management System (''Link to Resources'' / ''Student Grades'' / ''Online Quizzes'')

|-
| style="padding-left:0px;width:10%" |'''ict.senecacollege.ca'''
| style="padding-left:15px;width:65%" |Course website for same material as ULI101 WIKI (see below)

|-
| style="padding-left:0px;width:10%" |'''wiki.cdot.senecacollege.ca'''
| style="padding-left:15px;width:65%" |''Student Notes'' / ''Tutorials'' / ''Practice Questions'' / ''Resources''

|-
| style="padding-left:0px;width:10%" |'''<span style="color:blue;">matrix.senecacollege.ca</span>'''
| style="padding-left:15px;width:65%" |Linux Account for "''hands-on Practice''" and Assignment submission

|}


[[Image:cli-prompt.png|thumb|right|120px|A '''shell''' is an interface / interpreter to allow a user to communicate with the Linux computer system. ]]
Although you need to study concepts (slides) throughout this course, you will also need to get '''hands-on practice running Linux commands as well as performing and submitting online'''.<br>This requires that you '''connect to a Linux server''' and become comfortable with '''issuing Linux commands'''.

In Unix/Linux, a '''shell''' is simply an '''interface''' to allow a user to communicate with the Linux computer system (server). Linux shells have evolved (improved) over a period of time. You will be using the '''Bash Shell''' which is considered to be ''user-friendly''. By understanding how to issue Linux commands, you can create a file that contains Linux commands (called a '''shell script''') later in this course to automate tasks to make you a more '''productive''' Linux user and system administrator.
<br><br><br><br><br><br>

===Layout of the Matrix Linux Server===
[[Image:matrix-layout.png|thumb|right|250px|The Matrix server consists of several Computers connected together to form a '''cluster'''. A '''Linux Cluster''' is a '''cost effective''' alternative to larger servers. ]]

The '''Matrix server''' consists of '''several computers connected together''' to form a '''cluster'''.<br>A '''Linux cluster''' is a '''cost effective''' alternative to buying larger servers.

All registered students in this course should have an account on the Matrix server.<br>You will be using this account for the following reasons:

:* Issuing '''Linux commands'''
:* Becoming productive using the Linux '''command prompt''' ('''shell''')
:* Performing '''Linux Practice Tutorials (12)'''
:* Performing '''Linux Practice Questions'''
<br><br><br><br>

===Connecting to the Seneca GlobalProtect Student VPN===
[[Image:gp1.png|thumb|right|130px|'''Seneca GlobalProtect Student VPN''' ]]

Seneca College is "rolling-out" additional measures to improve '''network security'''. One of these measures is to implement '''multi-factored authentication'''. As of '''September 2020''', all Seneca College students are required to connect to the '''Seneca GlobalProtect Student VPN''' in order to be able to connect to their '''Matrix''' Linux account.<br><br>''<b>Multi-factor authentication</b> is an electronic authentication method in which a computer user is granted access to a website or application only after successfully presenting two or more pieces of evidence (or factors) to an authentication mechanism: knowledge (something the user and only the user knows).'' Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-factor_authentication<br><br>You should have received an email message (also available in course announcements) regarding how to setup your Smart Phone to connect and valid via the Seneca GlobalProtect Student VPN. '''NOTE:''' If you haven't done this yet, please perform the steps provided in the following link:<br>https://students.senecacollege.ca/spaces/186/it-services/wiki/view/1025/student-vpn<br><br>
 
In the next investigation, you will learn how to '''connect''' to and '''login''' to your Matrix server account from a remote computer<br>such as your '''home desktop computer''', '''laptop''' or '''tablet''' computer.<br><br>

===Connecting to Your Matrix Account===
[[Image:cli-prompt.png|right|80px|]]
After connecting to the Seneca GlobalProtect Student VPN, you can open a '''command terminal'''<br>in your '''Newer Windows 10''', '''Mac''' or '''Linux''' computer and issue the following command:<br><br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;">ssh senecauserid@matrix.senecacollege.ca</span><br><br>
[[Image:ssh-application-icon.png|right|80px|]]
You can also click on the following link to '''download''' and '''install''' a graphical SSH application for your Windows machine:<br>http://www.sfsu.edu/ftp/win/ssh/SSHSecureShellClient-3.2.9.exe<br><br><br><br>

= INVESTIGATION 1: ACCESSING YOUR MATRIX LINUX ACCOUNT =
<span style="color:red;">'''ATTENTION''': The due date for successfully completing this tutorial (i.e. tutorial 1) is by March 10 @ 11:59 PM (Week 8).</span><br><br>

In this investigation, you will learn how to connect and login to your Matrix account by issuing a command from your computer's text-based terminal<br>and/or by downloading, installing a running a graphical Windows SSH graphical application.
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    HIDE UNTIL STUDENTS RETURN TO COLLEGE AFTER PANDEMIC CRISIS 


[[Image:apps-anywhere-main-window.png|thumb|right|250px|'''MyApps''' ('''AppsAnywhere''') Main Window ]]
If you were able to access one of Seneca computer labs, you could access an application to connect to your Matrix account via the '''MyApps''' application.

Since many students are '''not''' permitted to access Seneca's computer labs at this time due to '''COVID19''', you can install and run the '''AppsAnywhere''' application (which works in an identical way to MyApps) on a remote Windows computer. This application is an application streaming service that lets you install software on any Seneca PC on demand. Any software application on the AppsAnywhere menu can be used on computers in classrooms, labs, and the Computing Commons.

Reference: https://inside.senecacollege.ca/its/software/myapps/

'''NOTE:''' Although you can install and run the AppsAnywhere application on an Apple Mac computer, you will NOT have access to many of the Windows applications (including applications to connect to your Matrix account). In this case, you can open a '''terminal''' and issue the '''ssh''' command to connect to your Matrix account. 

-->

===CONNECTING TO YOUR MATRIX ACCOUNT FROM A COMMAND LINE TERMINAL===

[[Image:gp1.png|thumb|right|130px|The '''GlobalProtect Student VPN''' service must be connected.]]
You will now learn a quick and simple method of connecting to your Matrix account by opening<br>a text-based '''terminal''' (in any OS) and issuing the '''ssh command'''.<br><br>

'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
# Before proceeding, make certain that your '''Seneca GlobalProtect Student VPN is connected'''.<br><br>If you haven't set this up, refer to the following link for instructions;<br>https://students.senecacollege.ca/spaces/186/it-services/wiki/view/1025/student-vpn<br><br>'''NOTE:''' You only have to connect to your Seneca GlobalProtect student VPN once during the day,<br>or while you are logged into your computer.<br><br>
# Determine which '''operating system''' that your computer is using.<br><br>
# Try connecting to your Matrix account using the instructions in the '''table''' below based on <u>your</u> '''current operating system'''.<br><br>
<table style="margin-left:50px;">
  <tr valign="top" style="text-align:center;">
     <th>'''Newer Version of Windows 10:'''</th>
     <th>'''MacOSX:''' </th>
     <th>'''Linux:''' </th>
  </tr>
  <tr> 
<td>
*From the start menu, type '''cmd''' and launch program
*In the command terminal, enter the following command:<br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;font-size:.75em;">ssh senecausername@matrix.senecacollege.ca</span>
     </td>
     <td>
*Click ''Launchpad'' icon, type '''terminal'''<br>and press '''ENTER'''
*In the terminal, enter the following command:<br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;font-size:.75em;">ssh senecausername@matrix.senecacollege.ca</span>
     </td>
     <td> 
*From the menu, choose:<br>'''Applications''' > '''System Tools''' > '''Terminal'''
*In the terminal, enter the following command:<br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;font-size:.75em;">ssh senecausername@matrix.senecacollege.ca</span>
     </td>
   </tr>
</table>
<ol><li value="4">When connecting securely for the '''first time''', a '''dialog box''' will appear to share a "'''public key'''" with your Matrix account in order to make your interaction between your workstation and the remote Linux server secure within the network (i.e. encrypted to prevent unauthorized access by other users)<br><br>''<b>FYI:</b> To make communications over a network '''secure''', a computer generates '''two keys''': a '''private key''' that is kept on the computer, and a '''public key''', which can be shared with other computers. Transmissions from your computer uses the private key to encrypt ('''scramble''') transmission to the remote computer, which in turn, uses the public key to decrypt (unscramble) the transmission. Likewise, the remote computer uses the public key to encrypt (scramble) transmissions and your computer uses the private key to decrypt ('''unscramble''') those transmissions.''<br><br></li><li>Type '''yes''' and press '''ENTER''' to share your public key.<br><br>Next, a '''dialog box''' will appear prompting you for your Matrix account '''password''' in order to gain entry to your Matrix account.<br>Your Matrix password is <u>identical</u> to your Seneca password. As you type the password, the text will be '''blocked-out''' or '''hidden'''<br>to prevent others from viewing the screen to obtain your password<br><br></li><li>Enter your Seneca password and press '''ENTER'''<br><br></li>'''NOTE:''' If you encounter an '''error message''', this can occur for several reasons:<ol><li>You mis-spelled the '''name of the server'''</li><li>You mis-spelled your Matrix '''username''' (same username that you connect to ''my.senecacollege.ca'')</li><li>You have '''CAPS LOCK''' on by mistake (your username should be '''lowercase''' only).</li><li>You mis-spelled your '''password''' (same password that you connect to ''my.senecacollege.ca'')<br><br>If you continue to experience the same problems, click on the following link for IT service desk contact info: <br>[https://employees.senecacollege.ca/spaces/122/support/wiki/view/3524/contact-its '''IT service desk'''].<br><br></li></ol>
<li>If you entered your password correctly, the '''Matrix Linux shell''' should appear where you can enter Linux commands.<br><br>The '''Matrix''' server has been configured to allow users to '''only interact with the Linux OS by issuing commands'''.<br>The main reason for this is to '''force students to learn how to issue Linux commands'''.<br><br></li><li>To '''exit''' your Matrix session, type the command <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">exit</span> followed by '''ENTER'''<br><br>'''NOTE:''' You should notice that you are returned to the original command prompt where you issued the ''ssh'' command.<br><br></li><li>Type the same command at the '''command terminal prompt''': <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">exit</span> followed by '''ENTER'''<br><br>
'''NOTE:''' You should notice that the you are disconnected and that the original terminal window has '''automatically closed'''.<br><br></li><li>Try accessing your Matrix account, and then exiting your Matrix account several times to become familiar with this process.<br><br>You will now learn an '''alternative method''' to access your Matrix account (if you have an MS Windows machine)<br>by downloading and running a graphical SSH application.</li></ol><br>

===CONNECTING TO YOUR MATRIX ACCOUNT FROM A GRAPHICAL WINDOWS APPLICATION===

You can also install and run a free '''MS Windows graphical SSH application''' in order to connect to your Matrix account.<br>You may find it useful when running a graphical SSH application to '''copy and paste text'''. There are several applications<br>that you can download and install, but we will be using the SSH Secure Shell Client application for this tutorial.<br><br>

'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
<!--

HARD TO GET STUDENTS TO RUN APPS ANYWHERE FROM HOME DUE TO PANDEMIC
COMMENTING OUT THIS SECTIONS UNTIL THE STUDENTS RETURN TO COLLEGE
SHOWING JUST TO INSTALL GRAPHICAL SSH APPLICATION INSTEAD

<table align="right"><tr valign="top"><td>[[Image:ma_1.png|thumb|right|150px|Click on Login button.]]</td><td>[[Image:ma_2.png|thumb|right|150px|Enter your Seneca email address.]]</td><td>[[Image:ma_3.png|thumb|right|150px|Authenticate via your Seneca username and password.]]</td></table>
# Open a web-browser on your Windows PC.<br><br>
# Click on the following link: https://myapps.senecacollege.ca/<br><br>
# Click the '''Login''' button to proceed.<br><br>
# When prompted, enter your your Seneca College email address.<br><br>
# You will be taken to the ''authentication dialog box'': enter your Seneca College username and password.<br><br><table align="right"><tr valign="top"><td>[[Image:ma_4.png|thumb|right|150px|Click on on the blue area.]]</td><td>[[Image:ma_5.png|thumb|right|150px|Click on '''Next''' to install the streaming application.]]</td><td>[[Image:apps-anywhere-main-window.png|thumb|right|250px|'''MyApps''' ('''AppsAnywhere''') Main Application Window ]]</td></table>
# A '''dialog box''' appears to offer a choice of actions. You need to install an application to support the Apps Anywhere streaming service.<br>Click on the <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">blue</span> area to install the application.<br><br>
# Click '''Next''' to proceed with installing the streaming application.<br><br>'''NOTE''': You may be require to '''authenticate''' using your computer account's password. Also, you may be required to '''restart''' your computer after the application has been installed.<br><br>If you restarted your computer, then launch a '''web-browser''' and click on the following '''link''' to resume: https://myapps.senecacollege.ca/<br>You may be required to login and validate like you did in previous steps.<br><br>
# You should notice that the '''AppsAnywhere''' main application window appears.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' You may see a '''Validation in Process''' (or a '''validation successful''') message appear .<br>Although your applications are displayed, you <u>cannot</u> launch them until the validation process is successful.<br><br><table align="right"><tr valign="top"><td>[[Image:ma_validation.png|thumb|right|175px|Validation in Process Message in AppsAnywhere. ]]</td><td>[[Image:ma_system_tray.png|thumb|right|175px|Starting '''Cloudpaging''' Service in your '''System Tray'''. ]]</td><tr></table>You can tell if the system is still validating if an red exclamation mark <span style="color:red; font-weight:bold">!</span> appears in the application icon.<br><br>If the validation process is taking a long time, try opening the '''Cloudpaging''' service in the '''system tray''' located in the right side of the taskbar (you may need to click to display ALL services and then '''double-click''' the '''Cloudpaging''' application to launch).<br><br>
# After your AppsAnywhere session has been validated, click on the '''Search Apps''' area located in the top right corner of the AppsAnywhere window and type the word: <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">ssh</span><br><br>[[Image:apps-anywhere.png|thumb|right|250px|Several SSH applications will appear. We will use the application called '''SSH Client''' for this practice tutorial. ]]
# Several SSH applications will appear. <br><br>'''NOTE:''' All of these applications allow you to connect to your Matrix account.<br>We will use the application called '''SSH Secure Shell Client''' for this practice tutorial.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' If you encounter an error trying to launch the SSH application via AppsAnywhere,<br>click on the following link for IT service desk contact info: [https://employees.senecacollege.ca/spaces/122/support/wiki/view/3524/contact-its '''IT service desk'''].<br><br>
# Launch the '''SSH Secure Shell Client''' application icon to launch this program.<br><br>'''TIP:''' Prior to launching the application, you can add this to your '''favourites''' which will make it faster<br>to access this application in the future.<br><br><span style="color:blue">'''NOTE #1''': If you experience a problem launching any of your applications, you should note that there is a '''Cloudpaging Player''' application<br>that lists applications launched. If your application did '''NOT''' launch properly, '''right click''' on each listed application and select '''remove''' from the menu.<br>Then re-launch your application from the AppsAnywhere page (the IT service desk indicated that this can occasionally occur).<br><br>

-->

# '''Click''' the following '''link''' to download and install the free SSH Secure Shell application on your Windows computer:<br>http://www.sfsu.edu/ftp/win/ssh/SSHSecureShellClient-3.2.9.exe<br><br>'''NOTE:''' If you can't download or run this link, check to see if you computer allows downloads from this site.<br><br><table align="right"><tr valign="top"><td>[[Image:ssh-application-icon.png|thumb|right|75px|Double-click SSH icon on desktop to launch application]]</td><td>[[Image:ssh-main-window.png|thumb|right|150px|SSH Client Application Window ]]</td></table>
# After the application has been installed, an application icon should appear on your desktop.<br>'''Double click''' the '''SSH Secure Shell Client''' application icon to run this application.<br><br>The main SSH Client window will appear. Let's learn how to connect to and login to our Matrix account using this graphical SSH application.<br><br>
# Click the '''Quick Connect''' button.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' The ''Connect dialog box'' allows the user to specify the '''server name''' and your '''account name''' to allow you to connect to the server.<br><br>[[Image:quick-connect-window.png|thumb|right|150px|Quick Connect Dialog Box ]]
# Click on the textbox labelled '''Hostname''' and type the text: <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">matrix.senecacollege.ca</span><br><br>'''NOTE:''' You can use the hostname '''matrix''' if you are at Seneca college.<br>If you where located <u>outside</u> Seneca's network, then you would need to enter<br>the <u>full</u> domain name: '''matrix.senecacollege.ca'''<br><br>You will be using the latter hostname since you will be connecting to your Matrix account remotely<br>and not within the college.<br><br>[[Image:share-public-key.png|thumb|right|150px|Dialog Box to Share Public Key on Remote Server ]]
# Click on the textbox labelled '''User Name''' and type your Seneca username (i.e. same as your Seneca userid).<br><br> 
# Click the '''Connect''' button.<br><br>
# When connecting securely for the '''first time''', a '''dialog box''' will appear to share a "public key" with your Matrix account in order to make your interaction between your workstation and the remote Linux server secure within the network (i.e. encrypted to prevent unauthorized access by other users).<br><br>
# Click the '''Yes''' button to share your public key.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' In subsequent logins to your Matrix account, you may experience a ''welcome dialog box'' - simply click '''OK''' to proceed.<br><br>
# Next, a '''dialog box''' will appear prompting you for your '''Matrix account password''' in order to gain entry to your Matrix account. Your Matrix password is identical to your Seneca password. As you type the password, the text will be blocked-out or hidden to prevent others from viewing the screen to obtain your password<br><br><table align="right"><tr valign="top"><td>[[Image:ssh-password-prompt.png|thumb|right|150px|Password Dialog Box ]]</td><td>[[Image:ssh-authentication-response.png|thumb|right|150px|Authentication Response Dialog Box ]]</td></table>
# '''Enter your password''' and click '''OK'''.<br><br>[[Image:ssh-login-error.png|thumb|right|150px|SSH Login Error ]]
# Click '''OK''' at the ''Authentication Response dialog box''.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' If you encounter an '''error message''', this can occur for several reasons:<ol><li>You mis-spelled the '''name of the server'''</li><li>You mis-spelled your Matrix '''username''' (same username that you connect to my.senecacollege.ca)</li><li>You have '''CAPS LOCK''' on by mistake (your username should be '''lowercase''' only).</li><li>You mis-spelled your '''password''' (same password that you connect to my.senecacollege.ca)</li></ol><br>If you continue to experience the same problems,<br>click on the following link for IT service desk contact info: [https://employees.senecacollege.ca/spaces/122/support/wiki/view/3524/contact-its '''IT service desk'''].<br><br>[[Image:ssh-shell-window.png|thumb|right|150px|Matrix Shell Command Line Interface ]]
#If you followed the login steps correctly, the '''SSH Linux shell should appear''' where you enter Linux commands.<br><br>The '''Matrix''' server has been configured to allow users to '''only interact with the Linux OS by issuing commands'''. There are various reasons for this, but the main 2 reasons are to '''force students to learn how to issue Linux commands''' as well as '''limitations to remote access to a graphical Linux server''' due to large number of users (students).<br><br>

'''Configuring your Graphical Windows SSH Application'''

You can '''configure''' your Windows graphical SSH application to adjust elements such as<br>'''text font type''' and '''text  font size'''. [[Image:ssh-settings-window.png|thumb|right|150px|SSH Settings Dialog Box ]]<br><br>We will now show you how to configure just your '''SSH Secure Shell Client''' application,<br>(FYI: other SSH applications available in the '''Week 1 reference section''' also have the ability to configure settings).<br><br>

'''Perform the Following Steps:'''

# Click on the '''Edit''' menu item, and then select '''Settings''' in the Edit drop-down menu.<br><br>
# To change the font size, under the ''Global Settings'' section, click '''Font'''<br><br>
# Select a larger ''font size'' and click '''OK'''<br><br>
# You now should notice that you have customized your SSH shell terminal. You can use the settings screen<br>to also change your background and text '''colours''' if you are interested in doing so.<br><br>
# Try moving your mouse pointer to the bottom right-hand corner of the SSH application window,<br>then '''click and drag''' outwards to make the application window larger.<br><br>
# To exit your Matrix session, type the command <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">exit</span> followed by '''ENTER'''<br><br>'''NOTE:''' You should notice that the colour of the text changes slightly when disconnected<br>and you are unable to issue Linux commands from that window.<br><br>
# After you have disconnected from your account, '''close''' the SSH Secure Shell Client application window.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' You are '''STRONGLY ADVISED''' to use the '''exit''' command to properly terminate your Matrix session<br>'''<u>PRIOR</u>''' to closing the SSH or terminal application window!<br><br>In the next investigation, you will learn how to '''issue Linux commands''', issue a '''checking program''' to confirm that you logged into your Matrix account.<br><br>

= INVESTIGATION 2: USING THE LINUX SHELL =

<br>
In this investigation, you will learn how to use the Linux Shell. Topics in the section include:

:* Learn the basic '''Linux command structure''' (''arguments'' and ''options'')
:* Learn how to get '''help''' for Linux commands via the '''online manual''' (i.e. '''man''' command).
:* Perform '''Basic Shell Editing'''
:* Issue a '''program''' to confirm that you connected to your Matrix account
<br>

===Part 1: Using the Linux Shell  ===

The Bash shell in Matrix allows you to interact with your Matrix account by issuing commands.

'''The General Linux Command Structure is as follows:'''<br><span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">command argument1 argument2 ... </span>

Some Linux commands can be issued by entering the Linux command line without arguments (e.g. '''pwd''', '''date''', '''ls''', '''cal'''),<br>but many Linux commands can be issued with arguments (e.g. '''cal 2002''', '''cd /bin''', '''ls -l -a /bin''' ).<br><br>
'''What Does an Argument Represent?'''

An '''argument''' can respresent:
:* a '''file pathname'''
:* a command '''option'''
:* a series of characters (i.e. '''text''') that the command can use 

An '''argument''' is <u>separated</u> from a command (or from other arguments) by a '''SPACE''', '''MULTIPLE SPACES''' or a '''TAB'''.<br><br>

'''Perform the Following Steps:'''

# Make certain that you are logged into your Matrix account.<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">pwd</span><br><br>The output from this Linux command basically shows your '''current location''' in the Matrix server.<br>This represents a '''directory pathname''' to your home directory. We will discuss ''pathnames'' later in this course.<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ls</span><br><br>What do you notice?<br><br>If there were any files in your home directory, just their file names would be displayed.<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cd /bin</span><br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command to confirm your current location: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">pwd</span><br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ls</span><br><br>What do you notice?<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command using an '''option''': <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ls -l</span><br><br>What do you notice?<br><br>The '''-l''' option with the '''ls''' command provides a '''detailed''' ("''long''") listing of files providing more information on a separate line for each file.<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command to return to your home directory: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cd</span><br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command to confirm your current location: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">pwd</span><br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ls /bin</span><br><br> 
# Issue the following Linux command to confirm your current location: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">pwd</span><br><br>What do you notice?<br><br>What makes this command with that argument useful if you are current located in your home directory?<br><br>
# Issue a Linux command that you have already learned to change to your '''home''' directory<br>and to '''confirm''' that you have returned to your home directory.<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">clear</span><br><br>What do you notice? How would this command be helpful?<br>'''FYI:''' The short-cut keys to clear the screen for the Bash shell is: <span style="font-family:courier;color:font-weight:bold">ctrl-l</span><br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">who</span><br><br>What information does this command show?<br><br>This command lists users that are logged into the same Matrix server as yourself.<br>'''NOTE:''' Remember that the Matrix Linux cluster contains several servers, so it does not display<br>all users that are logged onto those other machines within that cluster!<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">whoami</span><br><br>What does this command display? What do you think is the purpose of this command?<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cal</span><br><br>What is the purpose of this command?<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cal 2021</span><br><br>What is the purpose of this command using this argument?<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cal 2 2021</span><br><br>What is the purpose of this command using those two '''numbers''' as arguments?<br><br>
'''Getting Help with Linux Commands'''

With the Linux OS containing over '''2500''' commands and utilities, it is good for a Linux user or <br>Linux system administrator (sysadmin) to learn about how to use commands “on-the-fly”.<br><br>
The '''man''' command can provide information on how to use a command<br>(i.e. '''command usage''', '''acceptable command arguments''', '''command options''', '''examples''').<br><br>
# Issue the following command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">man man</span><br><br>You may notice that the online manual categories commands into sections or '''numbered volumes'''.<br><br>
# Type the '''SPACE''' key to move to the next screen.<br><br>How many '''volume numbers''' are contained in the man pages (like '''executable commands''',<br>'''games''', or '''system administrator commands''')?<br><br>'''TIP:''' You can use the following '''short-cut keys''' within the man command to <br>help navigate throughout this utility to get help with the ls command (refer to table below):<br><br><table cellpadding="3"><tr><th style="border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Keyboard Shortcut</th><th style="border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Purpose</th></tr><tr><td>'''ENTER'''</td><td>Move down one line</td></tr><tr><td>'''SPACEBAR'''</td><td>Move one screen down</td></tr><tr><td>'''&lt;ctrl&gt;&lt;b&gt;'''</td><td>Move one screen up</td></tr><tr><td>'''/pattern/'''</td><td>Search for Pattern</td></tr><tr><td>'''q'''</td><td>quit man utility</td></tr></table><br>
# Press the letter <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">q</span> to exit the man command.<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux command to get help with the ls command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">man ls</span><br><br>
# Navigate through the man utility for the '''ls''' Linux command and note the '''option letters''' that correspond to the following descriptions:<br><ul><li>"'''use a long lising format'''"</li><li>"'''do not ignore entries starting with .'''" (i.e. hidden files)</li><li>"'''sort by file size'''"</li><li>"'''append indicator (one of */=>&|) to entries'''" (i.e. type of file)</li></ul><br>
# Exit the man utility for the ''ls'' command.<br><br>
# Issue the '''ls''' command for <u>each</u> of those option letters you noted in '''step 4''' to see how this command differs for each option.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' The '''man''' utility can be used with the '''-k''' option to help list Linux commands that match a text pattern<br>that is contained within the help screen for a Linux command.<br><br>
# '''Pipeline commands''' can be used to filter-out unnecessary output. In the next command that you will be issuing,<br>the output from the '''man -k''' command, is sent into the '''grep''' command to ''filter'' (i.e. ''trap'') only output that matches the pattern "8"<br>(The number "8" refers to the category of type of command - in this case, administration commands).<br><br>We will learn more about pipeline commands later in this course.<br><br>
# Issue the following Linux pipeline command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">man -k user | grep 8</span><br><br>How does this ''pipeline command'' make it easier to obtain information regarding man command?<br><br>
# If you wish to change your password, you can change it by issuing the command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">passwd</span><br>What option for the passwd command can be used to change user info (such as name)?<br>'''Hint:''' use the '''man''' command for '''passwd'''.<br><br>
# Press the letter <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">q</span> to exit the man command.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' Do '''NOT''' run the ''passwd'' command. Unique for this college, your Matrix password<br>is changed automatically when you change your '''myseneca''' password.<br><br>You will now learn how to perform '''command line editing'''<br>to correct syntax errors while typing Linux commands PRIOR to pressing the ENTER key.<br><br>

'''Command Line Editing'''
[[Image:command-line-editing.png|thumb|right|520px|Command Line Editing Shortcut Keys. ]]


Learning '''shortcut keys''' in any OS terminal will allow you to be more productive as a ''Linux user'' or ''Linux System Administrator'' (commonly referred to as: '''Linux sysadmin''').<br><br><br>Let's learn a few common Bash Shell keyboard shortcut keys and find out where you can access online help for additional shortcuts (if required).



'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
[[Image:meta-key.png|thumb|right|370px|To make '''alt-f''' key work, select '''Edit''' -> '''Settings''' -> '''Keyboard''', and select the checkbox '''Use ALT as Meta key (and Escape)'''.]]
# Type the following Linux command, but DON’T press the ''ENTER'' key:<br><span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cd /bin</span><br><br>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-a</span> key combination. What happens?<br><br>'''NOTE:''' To make '''alt-f''' key work when use the '''GRAPHICAL Windows SSH Client application''', select '''Edit''' -> '''Settings''' -> '''Keyboard''', and select the checkbox '''Use ALT as Meta key (and Escape)'''.<br><br>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">alt-f</span> key combination '''two times'''<br>(OPTION+right-arrow for Mac OSx).<br><br>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">alt-b</span> key combination '''one time'''.<br>(OPTION+left-arrow for Mac OSx).<br><br><table align="right"><tr valign="top"><td>[[Image:ctrl-b.png|thumb|right|150px|'''alt-b''' moves one word backwards for Windows OS]]</td><td>[[Image:ctrl-w.png|thumb|right|150px|'''ctrl-w''' deletes a word to <u>left</u> of the cursor.]]</td><td>[[Image:new-ls.png|thumb|right|150px|After command is deleted, then type new command and press '''ctrl-e''' to move to end of the command line.]]</td></tr></table>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-w</span> shortcut key. What happens?<br><br>
# Type the following command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ls</span><br><br>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-e</span> key combination<br><br>What happens?<br><br>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ENTER</span> key to execute the command.<br><br>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">up arrow</span> key. What happens?<br><br>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-u</span> key combination. What happens?<br><br>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">up arrow</span> key combination, and see what happens when you press <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">BACKSPACE</span> , <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">&lt;ctrl&gt;&lt;BACKSPACE&gt;</span> and <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">&lt;ctrl&gt;&lt;h&gt;</span>.<br>Why is it important to know those series of key combinations?<br><br>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-u</span> key combination to clear the line.<br><br>
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-l</span> key combination. What happens? What is the advantage of using '''ctrl-u''' as opposed to '''ctrl-l'''?<br><br>The Bash shortcut keys that you just learned are sufficient to perform Bash Shell editing.<br>Although you are NOT required to learn other short-cut keys, here is a link to a listing in case you are interested:<br>[https:// ostechnix.com/list-useful-bash-keyboard-shortcuts/ Useful Bash Shell Keyboard Shortcuts]<br><br>
'''Running a Shell Script to Check Student Online Tutorial Participation'''

Some professors will require students successfully perform these online tutorials for marks (within a deadline). <br>In order to confirm that you successfully performed a tutorial, you will be required to run a program<br>(or in later tutorials, several programs) to prove that you successfully completed tasks in a tutorial.

These programs (known as Shell Scripts) will check your work and offer feedback if you made mistakes, so you can make corrections.<br>Making corrections (i.e. troubleshooting) and re-running these checking programs until you are successful will help students<br>gain "hands-on" experience.


<table align="right"><tr valign="top"><td>[[Image:script-check-1.png|thumb|right|250px|If all all check pass, then user performed can proceed.]]</td><td>[[Image:script-check-2.png|thumb|right|450px|If there is a warning, then feedback is provided to user to correct and re-run checking script.]]</td></table>
If you have correctly completed the required tasks, the user can proceed. If the checking shell script detects an '''error''', then it will provide feedback to allow the student to fix that problem so they can re-run the checking shell scripts until they have successfully completed a task.


'''Perform the Following Steps:'''

# Make certain that your current directory is '''your home directory'''<br>By entering the following Linux command:<br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;font-family:courier;">cd</span><br><br>
#Issue the following command to run a checking script :<br><span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">~osl640/week1-check</span><br><br>The beginning character "'''~'''" is called '''tilde'''. You get this character by pressing '''SHIFT''' + '''`'''<br>(which is the key to the left of the number 1 on your keyboard). <br><br>
# Your screen should clear and indicate that you have proved that you have successfully logged in.<br><br>
# An email will be sent to your Seneca email as '''confirmation''' that you have completed this tutorial.<br><br>Keep those confirmation email messages for the duration of this semester as proof that you have completed those checking scripts in case there is a discrepancy in tutorial grades.<br><br>

= LINUX PRACTICE QUESTIONS =
The purpose of this section is to obtain '''extra practice''' to help with '''quizzes''', your '''midterm''', and your '''final exam'''.

Here is a link to the [https://matrix.senecacollege.ca/~osl640/questions/osl640_week1_practice.docx MS Word Document of ALL of the questions] displayed below but with extra room to answer on the document to simulate a quiz:

Your instructor may take-up these questions during class. It is up to the student to attend classes in order to obtain the answers to the following questions. Your instructor will NOT provide these answers in any other form (eg. e-mail, etc).


'''Review Questions:'''

# What is a “'''Linux Cluster'''”? What is an advantage of using a Linux cluster?
# List '''three unique server names''' at Seneca college and briefly explain the purpose of that server. 
# List the steps to connect and login to your Matrix Seneca College account on your '''laptop''' or your '''home computer'''.
# List alternative methods to connect to your Matrix account, including if you have an '''Apple Mac''' computer or are running the '''Linux''' operating system.
# List 3 unique ways to '''log-out''' of your Matrix account (not including closing the SSH window or application).
# What is the difference between a Linux '''command''' and an '''argument'''?
# What is the purpose of a Linux command '''option'''?
# What character(s) are used to '''separate''' commands and arguments?
# Create a '''table''' listing each Linux command, useful options that were mentioned in this tutorial for the following Linux commands:<br>'''pwd''' , '''cd''' , '''ls''' , '''cal''' , '''date''' , '''who''' , '''w''' , '''whoami''' , '''who am I''' , '''clear'''

[[Category:OSL640]]