First Launch and Ubuntu Basics

Launching Ubuntu

From Windows Terminal

The best way to use WSL is through Windows Terminal:

1. Open Windows Terminal from the Start menu 2. Click the dropdown arrow (⌄) next to the + button 3. Select Ubuntu

From Start Menu

You can also find Ubuntu directly in your Start menu:

• Press Win and type "Ubuntu"
• Click on the Ubuntu app

Understanding the Terminal

When Ubuntu launches, you'll see a command prompt:

username@hostname:~$ 

Breaking Down the Prompt:

• username - Your Linux username
• @ - Separator
• hostname - Your computer name (usually "DESKTOP-XXXXX")
• : - Separator
• ~ - Current directory (home folder)
• $ - Normal user prompt (# would be root/admin)

Essential First Commands

1. Update Your System

Always start by updating your packages:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y

• sudo - Run as administrator (superuser)
• apt - Package manager
• update - Refresh package list
• upgrade - Install updates
• -y - Answer yes to all prompts

2. Check Your Ubuntu Version

lsb_release -a

3. See Current Directory

pwd

This prints the current working directory.

4. List Files

ls

5. Get Help

help
or
man ls

Understanding the Linux Directory Structure

Key Directories:

Your Home Directory

The ~ symbol represents your home directory. It's where your personal files are stored.

Useful Home Directory Commands:

cd ~        # Go to home directory
cd          # Also goes to home directory
echo $HOME  # Show home directory path

Exiting Ubuntu

To close Ubuntu:

exit

Or simply close the terminal window.

Summary

You've launched Ubuntu and learned the basics of the Linux terminal. The terminal is your gateway to the Linux world - every task in Linux can be done from here.

Next Lesson

In the next lesson, you'll learn how to navigate the Linux file system with essential commands.