Linux and how it works

This class is designed to give an adopter more control over their box. We cover creating and administering users, installing programs in several different ways, fixing problems and some security. We look at the structure of the filesystem and how to find important files in it. The class involves some command-line.

Introduction:

• How long have you had your Freekbox?
• What is working for you? What do you need help with?
• What do you use your box for primarily?
• What do you hope to learn today?

What is an Operating System

• What is linux? How is linux different from other Operating Systems?

Root

• The concept of root
• sudo
• becoming "root"

Users

• Creating users
  • System>Administration>Users and groups
• User permissions/Group permissions

Diversion: Have the students create an account and do nothing about permissions. Log out and log in to the new account and show that they cannot now access users and groups

• Changing passwords

Apt, Synaptic and program installation

• Open synaptic
• Overview of packages
• searching for packages
• Discussion of dependencies and what is a package, using gtkboard as an example
• Install example program(gtkboard is a good example)
• a brief touch on .tar.gz files and why not to use them if you have a choice

The Linux filesystem structure

• Overview
• Creating directories
• Permissions again

Networking for beginners

• What is an IP address
• What is a subnet mask
• What is a gateway
• Changing the name of your computer

Security concepts

• Why Linux users are not afraid of viruses
• What is a good password
• Security updates, what does that mean?

Instructions for the Instructor

• Set up class by setting up Freekboxen for all class participants. This includes:
  • One 17" beige monitor from the warehouse
  • One Freekbox
  • Keyboard, Mouse, Mouse pad, 2 Power cords.
• Turn on all systems, Username: oem Password: freegeek
• When class is over, please unplug everything from the system and leave the systems ready for Adoption Class the following day.
  • Delete any accounts that were created

• Note: The class is actually fairly free-form with many diversions because of questions. The idea is to get across more understanding of the system and can depend a great deal on the students previous understanding.
• Another note: If there are problem boxes, put a note on it explaining what went wrong and what you tried to do about it and put it in the tech support office. There are forms available for this purpose.