9 Best Linux Books for Beginners

Learning Linux can feel like a daunting task, especially if you're just starting out. But the right resources can make all the difference.

Whether you’re a developer, system administrator, or simply someone curious about Linux, these beginner-friendly books will guide you through the essentials. I've included a mix of free and paid options, so there’s something for everyone!

1. 101 Linux Commands (Free)

This free ebook is perfect for Linux beginners who want to build a strong foundation. It covers 101 essential Linux commands with practical examples, making it a must-have guide for anyone getting started with the command line.

👉 Download the ebook here

2. Introduction to Linux (Paid)

If you want to dive deeper into Linux basics, this ebook is for you. It covers the fundamentals of Linux, including installation, file systems, and permissions. It's ideal for beginners looking to build a solid understanding of Linux.

👉 Get the book on Leanpub

3. Introduction to Bash Scripting (Free)

Learning Linux often starts with learning Bash scripting. This free ebook covers the basics of Bash scripting, from writing your first script to automating tasks. It’s beginner-friendly and great for anyone looking to become more efficient with Linux.

👉 Download the ebook here

4. The Linux Command Line by William Shotts (Free)

This classic guide is free to download and covers the Linux command line in detail. It starts with the basics and progresses to more advanced topics like scripting. Perfect for anyone who wants to become proficient in using the Linux terminal.

👉 Download it here

5. How Linux Works by Brian Ward (Paid)

This highly recommended book explains the inner workings of Linux. It covers everything from boot processes to file systems and is an excellent resource for those who want to understand how Linux operates behind the scenes.

👉 Get the book on Amazon

6. Linux for Beginners by Jason Cannon (Paid)

Aimed at beginners, this book breaks down complex Linux concepts into easy-to-understand lessons. It covers basic commands, file management, and shell scripting, making it a great resource for those just starting out.

👉 Get the book on Amazon

7. Linux Bible by Christopher Negus (Paid)

The Linux Bible is a comprehensive guide that’s great for beginners and intermediate users alike. It covers everything from basic commands to advanced system administration tasks. This book is a trusted resource for mastering Linux.

👉 Get the book on Amazon

8. GNU/Linux Advanced Administration by Remo Suppi Boldrito (Free)

This comprehensive guide is ideal for those who already have some Linux knowledge and want to level up their skills. It’s packed with practical tips and is freely available online.

👉 Download it here

9. Linux Official Documentation (Free)

Not exactly a book, but the Linux Documentation Project (LDP) offers free, high-quality guides for every skill level. From beginner tutorials to advanced topics, the LDP is a go-to resource for Linux learners.

👉 Check out the documentation

Conclusion

Linux is an incredibly powerful operating system, and with the right resources, anyone can learn to use it effectively. Whether you’re starting with free guides like 101 Linux Commands and The Linux Command Line or diving into paid guides like Linux Bible or How Linux Works, there’s something here for every skill level.

Remember, the best way to learn Linux is by experimenting. If you need a server to test on, you can use my DigitalOcean referral link to get $200 in free credit, perfect for setting up a Linux environment.

Have you read any of these books or know of other great Linux resources? Let me know in the comments. Happy learning! 🐧