Linux and Unix are essentially two takes on the same operating system, with Linux serving as the free, open-source version.

This book serves as an all-around introduction to programming for a Linux or Unix operating system, covering how to write programs on and for the Linux OS, how to work efficiently within a Unix/Linux environment, and how the underlying design and structure of the Unix OS work.

The author’s friendly, conversational style reflects his more than 40 years of experience teaching this material. Numerous diagrams included in each chapter illustrate and simplify key concepts, while hands-on projects help to cement lessons that build on one another through the book.

*Prior programming experience, preferably in C or C++, is helpful but not required. No knowledge of Linux or Unix is necessary, but readers will need access to a Linux system.