About the Courses

If you have never used a computer before, then these courses are not for you.

The course is designed for use as a self-paced training aid. However, it can also be used in a class environment.

The course is suitable for people who are familiar with computing in general, and would like to "Learn Linux" for the purpose of using it as part of a business information technology (IT) strategy. If you wish to use, or consider using, Linux and have an interest in topics such as Systems Administration, Network Administration, or Systems Engineering, then the courses are for you.

In order to take part in the courses students should already have the following:

• A computer.

• Knowledge of PC Computers (operating systems, hardware).

• Knowledge of network communications.

• Aptitude for programming.

A connection to the Internet is helpful, but not required.

To run Linux from the console does not require a very powerful computer, a Pentium 100 with 32 MB of memory and 500 MB of hard drive space would be more than enough.

Of course the more recent Linux distributions (distro's), like Red Hat Enterprise 3 and SuSE Linux 9 would need a computer with more capabilities than a Pentium 1.

The complete course is contained in six books. Each book focuses on a different aspect of learning Linux and is a natural platform for progression to the next book in the set.

When approached in sequence, the level of technical knowledge is increased and knowledge provided by the previous book is assumed. The course is therefore designed to be approached in sequence, from beginning to end, but you can choose a customized track and complete only the sections that interest you.

The courses, in sequence, are as follows:

• Fundamentals

• System Administration

• Network Administration

• Shell Scripting

• Internals

• Electives

The definitions of "course outcomes" provided are merely guidelines to equivalent knowledge. As you know if you have a talent for working with computers or if you are an extremely hard-worker who is prepared to play with the operating system until you are sure of yourself, then you are likely to not need to follow these guidelines and you will exceed the qualification levels that are suggested here.

Therefore, when we say below that your knowledge would be equivalent to a "System Administrator", what we are really saying is that although you will have an extensive knowledge of Linux (we have structured the courses to ensure that there are sufficient labs and exercises), the additional knowledge - the knowledge of specific company set-ups or specific pieces of hardware - will still have to be gained by your experience.

As the reader of this document you are our most important critic and commentator. We value your opinion and want to know what we are doing right, what we could do better, and another thoughts, words of wisdom, and constructive criticism you don't mind sharing with us.

We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of this book. If you have comments questions, or ideas regarding this book, please send them to the Learn Linux Project community. There are a number of methods by which you can communicate with the Learn Linux community, these are discussed in the Projects section.