Dive deep into the Linux terminal with these 10 hidden commands that even seasoned Linux geeks might not know, but definitely should!
In the vast universe of Linux, the terminal is a powerful and indispensable tool for all users. Beyond the commonly used commands, the terminal harbors some hidden gems that can make your Linux experience smoother and more enjoyable. Let’s unveil 10 hidden commands that every Linux geek should know!
1. rev Command
The rev command in Linux is a simple yet fascinating utility that reverses strings of text. By inputting echo “Hello, World!” | rev, the terminal will output !dlroW ,olleH. This command can be particularly handy for scriptwriting and text processing tasks where string reversal is needed, offering a quick and efficient solution.
2. yes Command
The yes command continuously outputs a string until it’s terminated. While it might seem pointless at first, it’s incredibly useful for automating responses to command prompts. For instance, yes | command will automatically answer all prompts with ‘y’, streamlining the installation or removal processes that require user confirmation.
3. cal Command
With the cal command, users can instantly bring up a calendar in the terminal. Typing cal will display a simple, easy-to-read calendar of the current month, while additional options allow for viewing previous or future months and years. It’s a handy tool for quick date references without leaving the terminal environment.
4. cowsay Command
The cowsay command is a text filter that takes input from the command line and returns the text as a speaking cow (or other animals, if specified). It’s a humorous way to display messages in the terminal and can be combined with other commands for a fun and personalized command-line experience.
5. sl Command
Typing sl (a common typo for ls) will trigger an animation of a steam locomotive driving across your terminal. It’s not only entertaining but also serves as a gentle reminder to slow down and type more carefully, turning a small mistake into a moment of levity.
6. shuf Command
The shuf command is a versatile utility that generates random permutations from input lines of text. It’s useful for a variety of tasks, from shuffling the lines in a text file to generating random numbers, making it a valuable tool for scripting and data manipulation.
7. toilet Command
toilet is a fun command that generates colorful, large text banners in the terminal with various fonts and options. It’s great for creating standout headers or messages in scripts, or simply for personalizing your terminal environment with style.
8. cmatrix Command
cmatrix is a nifty command that simulates the falling green code seen in “The Matrix” films. It’s a visually pleasing way to animate your terminal, perfect for impressing friends or giving your workspace a cyberpunk aesthetic.
9. figlet Command
figlet is another text banner generator, turning ordinary text into large characters made up of ordinary screen characters. With various fonts and options, figlet helps in creating striking textual art for headers, welcome messages, or any place where you need to make a visual impact with text.
10. ddate Command
ddate prints the current date in the Discordian date format. It’s a quirky and amusing alternative to the standard date command, offering a whimsical way to keep track of the time in a fictional calendar system.
These hidden Linux commands offer a blend of utility, amusement, and surprise for users who wish to explore the depths of the terminal. Whether you’re a seasoned Linux enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these commands are sure to add a layer of fun and functionality to your command-line adventures. Happy exploring!
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