The Fastest and Easiest Way to Learn Linux

No one learns how to ride a bike from a video. People learn by doing. The same goes for learning Linux - or anything, for that matter (like a business, perhaps?). You need to do something more than just install it and browse the internet.

I learned Linux by setting up different types of servers on Linux. I, by no means, claim to be an expert, however, I am comfortable at the Unix Shell and know enough about it to troubleshoot my way through most problems.

The first project that I did on Linux was setting up a Jabber instant message server (I assume the same one Google uses for gtalk and Meebo uses for its web client). Previous to this I had some basic Linux experience but not much more than copying, pasting, and editing files and doing a couple of make installs. Although, at the time, this was one of the most frustrating things that I have ever done, I learned so much about Linux.

Since then I have done many projects on various distros of Linux including my latest project, a Personal Video Recorder. Each time I have expanded my knowledge and familiarity with Linux but none have been as challenging as the first.

This is why I encourage you to push your way through that first Linux project. Even if you get frustrated and don’t finish, instead of quiting, move on to something a little easier, then later come back to the problem you were having before. The experience of a failed attempt is better than no experience at all. -E

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