Linux
Linux is a version of Unix. It is a multi-tasking, multi-user operating system: multiple users can log into and use the same machine simultaneously. You need a CS account (username and password) to log in. These computers are remotely accessable, you can log in to them from remote locations, using communication programs like ssh. Please note, due to University security policy, we can no longer offer telnet or ftp access to our machines.
Login / Logout
You must login to our Linux machines, using your CS username and password. Note this is just your username, not your entire email address. For info on how to get an account, see our CS Account Page. Your linux files are owned by you, and by default cannot be removed by other users. Be sure to logout from our Linux machines when you are finished (left mouse button).The Window Manager
When you first log into one of our Linux machines, you see a command line window and a virtual desktop pager at the bottom right of the screen. You have four 'virtual' desktop areas, where different windows may be present. You jump between these areas by left-clicking on the pager.When the mouse is not on any window, holding the left mouse button brings up a menu of common programs, such as netscape and emacs. You also use this button to logout. The middle button lists window operations (such as killing a frozen window with nuke). The right button lists all your active windows, weather visible or not. This right mouse button allows you to bring up windows that are not currently on the screen.
While there are an increasing number of graphical mouse-driven programs for linux, such as Netscape Communicator, most operations can be performed efficiently with the command line interface.
Your Files
When you log in, your current directory is your home directory. Any files you create are owned by you. You can set file permissions to give or deny access to each of your files by other users. Your home directory disk space is networked: you see the same files no matter which Linux lab machine you log in to.