Difference between revisions of "Tutorial 1: Using Your Matrix Server Account"

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=LEARNING ABOUT YOUR MATRIX SERVER ACCOUNT=
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=USING YOUR MATRIX SERVER ACCOUNT=
 
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<br>
 
===Main Objectives of this Practice Tutorial===
 
===Main Objectives of this Practice Tutorial===
  
:* Understand the purpose of the '''Matrix server''' and the <u>'''advantages'''</u> of combining Linux servers to form a '''cluster'''.
 
  
:* List the steps to connect to your Matrix server account in the <u>'''computer labs</u> at Seneca College'''.
+
:* Learn how to access your '''Matrix''' server account (from home and/or from Seneca computer lab).
  
:* List the steps to connect to your Matrix server account from a computer <u>'''outside</u> of Seneca College'''.
+
:* Learn several ways to '''exit''' your Matrix Linux Account session.
  
:* Working with the Linux '''Command Prompt''' (Linux '''shell''')
+
:* Understand the '''Linux command structure''' and how to get '''help''' with Linux command usage.
  
:* Changing your Matrix Account '''Password'''
+
:* Become efficient with '''Linux command line editing''' by using '''short-cut keys'''.
  
:* '''Exiting''' your Matrix Linux Account
+
:* Issue a '''checking program''' (i.e. ''Shell Script'') to '''confirm''' that you accessed your Matrix account.
 
 
:* Performing '''Review Questions''' for Additional Practice
 
 
 
===Purpose of Having a Matrix Account===
 
 
 
[[Image:cli-prompt.png|thumb|right|150px|A '''shell''' is simply an interface / interpreter to allow a user to communicate with the Linux computer system. ]]
 
Although you need to study concepts throughout this course, you will also need to learn to '''issue and memorize simple as well as more advanced Linux commands'''. This requires that you practice issuing Linux commands on a frequent basis to become more comfortable when working the Unix and '''Linux command-line environments'''.
 
 
 
Just like with other operating systems like MS Windows, it is important to learn how to '''open a command prompt in order to issue Linux commands to perform common Linux OS tasks'''. In Unix/Linux, a '''shell''' is simply an interface / interpreter to allow a user to communicate with the Linux computer system (server). Linux shells have evolved (improved) over a period of time. You will be using the '''Bash Shell''' which is considered to be user-friendly.
 
 
 
The '''Matrix''' server has been configured to allow users to '''only interact with the Linux OS by issuing commands'''. There are various reasons for this, but the main 2 reasons are to '''force students to learn how to issue Linux commands''' as well as '''limitations to remote access to a graphical Linux serve'''r due to large number of users (students).
 
 
Later in the course, your instructor may discuss other ways of accessing graphical versions of Linux, and how to launch a shell terminal.
 
 
 
===Layout of the Matrix Server===
 
[[Image:matrix-layout.png|thumb|right|450px|The Matrix server consists of several Virtual Computers all connected together to form a '''cluster'''. A cluster is a cost effective  alternative to larger servers. ]]
 
 
 
The Matrix server consists of several Virtual Computers running CentOS  all connected together to form a cluster. A cluster is a cost effective  alternative to larger servers.
 
 
 
All registered students in this course have access to an account on the Matrix server.
 
You will be using this account for the following reasons:
 
 
 
:* Issuing '''Linux commands'''
 
:* Becoming productive using the Linux '''command prompt''' ('''shell''')
 
:* Performing '''Linux Practice Tutorials'''
 
:* Performing '''Linux Assignments''' ('''3''')
 
:* Practice Issuing '''Linux Command Review Questions'''
 
 
  
 +
:* Perform '''LINUX PRACTICE QUESTIONS''' for additional practice<br><br>
  
 +
===Tutorial Reference Material===
  
 +
{|width="100%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="10"
  
 +
|- valign="top"
  
{|width="100%" cellspacing="0"
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|colspan="2" style="font-size:16px;font-weight:bold;border-bottom: thin solid black;border-spacing:0px;"|Course Notes / Software<br>
  
|- valign="top"
+
|colspan="2" style="font-size:16px;font-weight:bold;border-bottom: thin solid black;border-spacing:0px;padding-left:15px;"|Linux Command/Shortcut Reference<br>
  
|colspan="2" style="font-size:16px;font-weight:bold;border-bottom: thin solid black;border-spacing:0px;"|Minimum Required Materials<br>
+
|colspan="1" style="font-size:16px;font-weight:bold;border-bottom: thin solid black;border-spacing:0px;padding-left:15px;"|YouTube Videos<br>
 
 
|colspan="3" style="font-size:16px;font-weight:bold;border-bottom: thin solid black;border-spacing:0px;padding-left:15px;"|Linux Command Reference<br>
 
  
 
|- valign="top" style="padding-left:15px;"
 
|- valign="top" style="padding-left:15px;"
  
| |[[Image:ssd.png|thumb|left|175px|<b>Solid State Drive</b><br>Minimum Size: 250GB]]
+
|colspan="2" |'''Slides:'''<ul><li>Week 1 Lecture 1 Notes:<br> [https://github.com/ULI101/slides/raw/main/ULI101-1.1.pdf PDF] | [https://github.com/ULI101/slides/raw/main/ULI101-1.1.pptx PPTX]</li><li>Week 1 Lecture 2 Notes:<br> [https://github.com/ULI101/slides/raw/main/ULI101-1.2.pdf PDF] | [https://github.com/ULI101/slides/raw/main/ULI101-1.2.pptx PPTX] <br></li></ul>'''Tutorials:'''<ul><li>[https://wiki.cdot.senecacollege.ca/wiki/Tutorial_1:_Using_Your_Matrix_Server_Account#INVESTIGATION_1:_ACCESSING_YOUR_MATRIX_LINUX_ACCOUNT HOWTO: Access Your Matrix Account]</li><li>[http://czegel.com/seneca/uli101/lectures/Lecture1.html Les Czegel's Week 1 Notes (HTML)]</li></ul>'''Windows SSH client Software:'''<ul><li>[http://www.sfsu.edu/ftp/win/ssh/SSHSecureShellClient-3.2.9.exe SSH/SFTP]</li><li>[https://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/latest.html Putty]</li><li>[https://www.bitvise.com/ssh-client-download Bitvise SSH Client]</li><li>[https://mobaxterm.mobatek.net/download-home-edition.html MovaXterm]</li></ul>
  
| [[Image:log-book.png|thumb|left|100px|<b>[[:Media:OPS235_logbook.pdf|Lab Logbook]]</b><br>(lab 1)]]
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|  style="padding-left:15px;" |'''Matrix Account Access:'''
 
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*[https://ss64.com/bash/logout.html logout , exit]<br>
|  style="padding-left:15px;" |Package Management
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*[https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-difference-between-typing-Ctrl+C-and-Ctrl+D-in-the-Linux-terminal &lt;ctrl&gt;&lt;d&gt;]
*[https://linux.die.net/man/8/rpm rpm]<br>
+
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/passwd.1.html passwd]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man8/yum.8.html yum]<br>
+
'''Command Line Editing:'''
System Information<br>
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*[https://www.ostechnix.com/list-useful-bash-keyboard-shortcuts/ Bash Shell Shortcut Keys]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/hostname.1.html hostname]<br>
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|  style="padding-left:15px;"|'''General Linux Commands:'''
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/uname.1.html uname]<br>
 
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/ps.1.html ps]<br>
 
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man8/lsblk.8.html lsblk]<br>
 
Networking<br>
 
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man8/ifconfig.8.html ifconfig]<br>
 
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man8/route.8.html route]<br>
 
*[http://linux.math.tifr.res.in/manuals/man/nslookup.html nslookup]<br>
 
|  style="padding-left:15px;"|Miscellaneous
 
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/grep.1.html grep]<br>
 
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/wc.1.html wc]<br>
 
 
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/pwd.1.html pwd]<br>
 
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/pwd.1.html pwd]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/ls.1.html ls]<br>
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*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/cd.1p.html cd]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/more.1.html more]<br>
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*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/ls.1p.html ls]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/file.1.html file]<br>
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*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/cal.1.html cal]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/wget.1.html wget]<br>
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*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/date.1.html date]<br>
*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/chmod.1.html chmod]<br>
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*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/who.1.html who] , [http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/w.1.html w]<br>
*[https://ss64.com/vi.html vi]
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*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/whoami.1.html whoami ,who am i]<br>
| style="padding-left:15px;"|Matrix on-line tutorials<br><ul><li>Linux Basics:<br>'''/home/ops235/linux-basics'''</li><li>Using the vi Text Editor:<br>'''/home/ops235/vi-tutorial'''</li><li>Shell Scripting - Part I (Scripting Basics):<br>'''/home/ops235/scripting-1'''</li></ul>
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*[http://man7.org/linux/man-pages/man1/clear.1.html clear , &lt;ctrl&gt;&lt;l&gt;]<br>
|}
 
  
=INVESTIGATION 1: Create And Install Your First Virtual Machine (c7host)=
 
  
In this lab, you will learn how to install your '''CentOS Full Install DVD''' as a virtual machine using the '''VMware Workstation''' application.
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|colspan="1" style="padding-left:15px;" width="30%"|'''Brauer Instructional Videos:'''<ul><li>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L5RcOngDV_o Connecting to Matrix Using SSH Client, and Running UBUNTU Within Windows 10]<br><br></li><li>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3wZmZOKLllk&list=PLU1b1f-2Oe90TuYfifnWulINjMv_Wr16N&index=2 Linux File System, Basic Navigation (ls, cd, pwd, tree), Absolute and Relative Paths]</li></ul>
  
===Part 1: Using VMware Workstation Pro to Create a New Virtual Machine (VM) ===
+
|}
  
 +
= KEY CONCEPTS=
  
 +
===Purpose of Having a Matrix Linux Server Account===
  
 +
While attending Seneca College, you will be using many different computer systems.
 +
Some of these servers include:
  
'''<u>c7host VM Details:</u>'''
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{|width="100%" cellspacing="0"
  
*'''Name:''' c7host
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|-
*'''Boot media / Installation:''' CentOS 7 Full Install DVD (image file)
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| style="padding-left:0px;width:10%" |'''my.senecacollege.ca'''
:::*Download at Seneca College: <br>https://mirror.senecacollege.ca/centos/7/isos/x86_64/CentOS-7-x86_64-DVD-1908.iso
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| style="padding-left:15px;width:65%" |Learning Content Management System (''Link to Resources'' / ''Student Grades'' / ''Online Quizzes'')
:::*Download outside Seneca College:<br>http://mirror.netflash.net/centos/7/isos/x86_64/CentOS-7-x86_64-DVD-1908.iso
 
*'''Disk space:''' 238GB
 
*'''CPUs:''' 1 CPU, 4 cores (recommended)
 
  
[[Image:Format_ExFAT.png|thumb|right|250px|'''Format drive window''' in order to format your new SSD as '''exFAT''' ('''Windows''')]]
+
|-
 +
| style="padding-left:0px;width:10%" |'''ict.senecacollege.ca'''
 +
| style="padding-left:15px;width:65%" |Online access to slides, documents via webpage links
  
{{Admon/caution|FORMAT YOUR SSD AS exFAT|'''You ''must'' format your external drive as exFAT.'''
+
|-
<br>By default, most drives will be formatted for NTFS. <u>'''NTFS-formatted drives will cause issues in this course!'''</u> When you plug your drive in, open My Computer, right-click on the new drive, and select ''Format...''.}}
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| style="padding-left:0px;width:10%" |'''wiki.cdot.senecacollege.ca'''
 +
| style="padding-left:15px;width:65%" |''Student Notes'' / ''Tutorials'' (weekly, review) / ''Practice Questions'' / ''Resources''
  
{{Admon/important|Confirm External SSD Device is Recognized as a Drive in Windows Explorer|It is essential that your Windows machine recognizes your SSD device with a drive letter on your Windows machine. You may experience problems if you are using the Kingston SSD. If so, then run '''diskmgmt.msc''' in order to create a volume and format your disk1.}}
+
|-
 +
| style="padding-left:0px;width:10%" |'''<span style="color:blue;">matrix.senecacollege.ca</span>'''
 +
| style="padding-left:15px;width:65%" |Linux Account for "''hands-on Practice''"
  
{{Admon/important|Enabling Virtualization on your Home Computer|If you are going to try this lab on your home computer, there are a few things you need to be aware:<br><ul><li>'''RAM Size considerations:''' Your Seneca Lab Workstations have '''16GB''' of RAM. Your home computer should have a <u>sufficient amount of RAM</u> in order to function efficiently.<br></li><li>'''Enable Virtualization in home computer's BIOS:''' Most home computers do not have Virtualization enabled on their computer's BIOS. In your machines BIOS/UEFI: Enable the options VT-X(required) and VT-D(only if available)</li></ul>}}
+
|}
  
  
Before you can install your CentOS Full Install DVD onto your Virtual Machine, you must first create a storage container which is a virtual machine that will provide a platform for you to install your CentOS operating system.
+
[[Image:cli-prompt.png|thumb|right|120px|A '''shell''' is an interface / interpreter to allow a user to communicate with the Linux computer system. ]]
 +
Although you need to study concepts throughout this course (slides, etc.), you will also need to get '''hands-on practice running Linux commands as well as performing and submitting online tutorials'''.<br>This requires that you '''connect to a Linux server''' and become comfortable with '''issuing Linux commands'''.
  
:'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
+
In Unix/Linux, a '''shell''' is simply an '''interface''' to allow a user to communicate with the Linux computer system (server). Linux shells have evolved (improved) over a period of time. You will be using the '''Bash Shell''' which is considered to be ''user-friendly''. By understanding how to issue Linux commands, you can create a file that contains Linux commands (called a '''shell script''') later in this course to automate tasks to make you a more '''productive''' Linux user and system administrator.
[[Image:vmware-2.png|thumb|right|500px|'''Main WMware application window''' in order to create a new '''Virtual Machine''' ('''VM''')]]
 
  
# Although the images may be a little out of date (i.e. not exact), you can refer to this listing of installation screenshots for general reference:<br>[[http://matrix.senecac.on.ca/~murray.saul/ops235/ssd2/ installation screen-shots] ]<br>
+
===Layout of the Matrix Linux Server===
# Power up the computer in your Seneca lab in '''Windows'''.
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[[Image:matrix-layout.png|thumb|right|250px|The Matrix server consists of several Computers connected together to form a '''cluster'''. A '''Linux Cluster''' is a '''cost effective''' alternative to larger servers. ]]
# If you haven't already downloaded the CentOS 7 Full Install DVD ISO, then download the following link for the CentOS 7 Full Install DVD image on your local computer: <br>https://mirror.senecacollege.ca/centos/7/isos/x86_64/CentOS-7-x86_64-DVD-1810.iso
 
# Plug your SSD drive into your computer. Note the drive letter for that device.
 
# Format your SSD to use exFAT, '''not NTFS'''. Open ''My Computer'', right-click on the SSD, and select ''Format...''. The dialog box should have the '''exFAT''' option selected, as the example to your right shows. Once selected, click ''Start''.
 
# Create a folder called: '''Virtual Machines''' on your SSD device.
 
# On your Seneca computer lab workstation, click the '''Windows Menu''' button and type '''VMware'''.
 
# There are two VMware products: '''VMware Workstation Pro''' and ''VMware Player''.
 
# Run the '''VMware Workstation Pro''' application (do '''<u>NOT</u>''' run VMware Player!).
 
# <span style="background-color:yellow;">In your VMware Workstation application window, click the '''Edit''' menu, then select '''Preferences'''. Under the '''Default Location For Virtual Machines''', enter the pathname for the newly created folder in your SSD device and click '''OK'''</span>.
 
# Click on the item labelled '''Create a New Virtual Machine'''.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' We will just be creating a "shell" for the VM to contain our CentOS 7 Linux operating system.<br>This will allow us to configure the VM properly so it will boot-up properly in our Seneca labs.<br><br>
 
# Select the '''Custom (advanced)''' for the Virtual Machine Configuration setting and click '''Next'''.
 
# Click '''Next''' at the next screen to proceed.
 
# Select the '''I will in<u>s</u>tall the operating system later''' option and click '''Next'''.
 
# In the next screen, select '''Linux''' as the '''Guest Operating System''', and '''CentOS 7 64-bit''' for the OS ''version'' and click '''Next'''.
 
# Enter '''c7host''' for the ''<u>V</u>irtual machine name'' and note the location where the image will be stored on your Windows machine and click '''Next'''.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' Since this "virtual machine" will be supporting other virtual machines (i.e. nested VMs), it is recommended to select a '''higher number or core processors''' (like 2 or 3).<br>You can always change this setting later on to maximize the performance of running the "nested" VMs on your Host VM.<br><br>
 
# Select <b>1 CPU, 4 cores</b> and click '''Next''' .
 
# In the following screen, change the Memory from ''1GB'' to '''8GB''' (i.e. '''8192 MB''') and click '''Next'''.
 
# Click '''Next''' to accept the default (i.e. '''NAT''') for the network type.
 
# Click '''Next''' to accept the default (i.e. '''LSI Logic''') for the SCSI Controller type.
 
# Click '''Next''' to accept the default (i.e. '''SCSI''' for the virtual disk type).
 
# Click '''Next''' to accept ''Create New Virtual Disk''.
 
# Change the Maximum Disk Size from ''20GB'' to '''238GB''' and click '''Next'''.
 
# Accept the default Disk File name (i.e. c7host.vmdk) and click '''Next'''.
 
# Quickly review your VM settings in the final setup wizard dialog box and click '''Finish'''.
 
# You should now see a detailed screen for your '''c7host''' VM on the right-hand side.<br><br>'''ATTENTION: PRIOR to proceeding, you MUST perform the following step <u>BEFORE</u> starting your Host VM in order to allow your Host VM to run correctly!!!<br>Students that do not follow these procedures exactly will run in to problems when trying to perform lab2 !!! You have been warned!!!.'''<br><br>
 
# Make certain that your Host VM is <u>'''NOT'''</u> powered on before proceeding!
 
# In the right-hand window (below "c7host"), and below ''"Power on this virtual machine"'', click the link called '''Edit virtual machine settings'''.
 
# <span style="background-color:yellow">In this setup dialog box, click the '''options''' tab and then click the '''Advanced''' option at the bottom of the list. On the right-hand side, under ''Firmware Type'', '''select the radio button for UEFI'''. Then click on the '''Hardware''' tab, and then select the '''CD/DVD (IDE)''' device and select in the right-side select the radio button for the '''use ISO Image file'''. Click the '''Browse''' button and specify the path of your downloaded CentOS 7 Full install DVD (most likely file is contained in your Downloads folder). Click '''Processors''', and click the check-box to <u>enable</u> '''Virtual Intel VT-X/EPT or AMD-V/RVI'''. When finished, click on the '''OK''' button</span>.
 
# You will return to your c7host VM. Click '''Power on this virtual machine''' icon near the top to boot your c7host VM to start your c7host VM, and proceed to Part 2.
 
  
===Part 2: Install CentOS on your Newly-Created VM ===
+
The '''Matrix server''' consists of '''several computers connected together''' to form a '''cluster'''.<br>A '''Linux cluster''' is a '''cost effective''' alternative to buying larger servers.
  
The next step is to perform a custom installation for your CentOS 7 virtual machine using the CentOS 7 Full DVD. Upon creation of your c7host virtual machine, The VMware Workstation application will automatically simulate a "boot" to allow you to complete the installation process to create the CentOS 7 operating system on that virtual machine.
+
All registered students in this course should have an account on the Matrix server.<br>You will be using this account for the following reasons:
  
:'''Perform the following steps:'''
+
:* Issuing '''Linux commands'''
[[Image:installation_summary.png|thumb|right|400px|The '''Installation Summary''' screen provides flexibly when configuring to install on your computer. ]]
+
:* Becoming productive using the Linux '''command prompt''' ('''shell''')
#  Select from the installation menu: '''Install CentOS 7'''.
+
:* Performing '''Linux Tutorials''' ('''11''')
# Next, you will be prompted for a language. In the first screen, select language '''English''' with subselection '''English-Canada''' and then click the '''Continue''' button on the bottom right-hand screen.
+
:* Performing '''Linux Practice Questions'''
#  The '''Install Summary''' should now appear. This screen allows the installer to customize their CentOS 7 system prior to installation.
+
:* Performing '''Review Tutorial Questions''' ('''2''')
#  Configure the following installation settings from the ''Install Summary Screen'':<br><br>
 
::<b>DATE & TIME:</b><ul><li>Click on the Map to select Toronto area (you may also select from the drop-down menu section)</li><li>Click the <b>DONE</b> button at the top-left corner to finish and return to the Installation Summary screen.</li></ul><br>
 
::<b>SOFTWARE SELECTION:</b><ul><li>Select the software packages labelled: <b>Gnome Desktop</b></li><li>Click the <b>DONE</b> button at the top-left corner to finish and return to the Installation Summary screen.<br><br></li></ul>
 
::<b>NETWORK & HOSTNAME (you may need to scroll downwards):</b><ul><li>Select the default Ethernet connection and click the button on the top right-hand side to change the setting from <b>OFF</b> to <b>ON</b>.</li><li>'''Also, at the bottom left-hand corner''',  type the hostname: <b>c7host</b> (all lowercase letters)</li><li>Review your settings, then click the <b>DONE</b> button at the top-left corner to finish and return to the Installation Summary screen.</li></ul><br>
 
{|width="40%" align="right" cellpadding="10"
 
|- valign="top"
 
|
 
{{Admon/note|Mount Points and Linux File System Types|Similar to other Operating Systems like windows '''fat''' / '''vfat''' / '''ntfs''' file system types, it is good to know a few common file system types in Linux for comparison:<br><ul><li><b>xfs:</b> &nbsp; Newer filesystem (fast transfer rates for large files, Journaling)</li><li><b>ext4:</b> &nbsp; Newer filesystem supporting large files and Journaling (used in for this lab)</li><li><b>ext2:</b> &nbsp; Stable filesystem popular for databases (no journaling)</li></ul>|
 
}}
 
|-
 
|
 
[[Image:partition_verification.png|thumb|right|450px|Carefully verify partition mount-names and sizes prior to proceeding with install. Check [http://matrix.senecac.on.ca/~murray.saul/ops235/installation/ installation screenshots] link for verification.]]
 
|}
 
::'''INSTALLATION DESTINATION:'''
 
::*From the installation summary screen, click '''Installation Destination'''.
 
::*In the installation destination screen, select the destination option: '''I will configure partitioning''' and then click '''Done'''.
 
::*The manual partitioning screen should appear.
 
::*If you have used your hard disk for previous Linux (CentOS) distributions, you should remove them. Click on the distribution, and for each partition, select the partition and click the remove button (minus sign) and confirm deletion.
 
::Remember that the sizes are recorded in MB (eg. 30 GB = 30000 MB) and you should multiply GB by a factor of 1024 to get the correct size. (eg. '''30 GB x 1024 = 30720 MB''')<br><br>
 
<ol><li value="5">We will now create our partitions. '''Click on the add button (plus) sign'''.<br></li>
 
<li>In the '''Add a New Mount Point''', click the drop-down button and select '''/boot/efi''' for the mount point and type '''2954''' as the desired capacity, and then click '''Add mount point'''.</li>
 
<li>When you return to the main screen, make certain that this mount point is a '''Standard Partition''' and <u>not</u> ''LVM''.</li>
 
<li>Add the <b>/boot</b> mount point with a size of <b>500</b>. Leave the default settings and file system as xfs.</li>
 
<li>Add another mount point, but in the '''Add a New Mount Point''' screen, select '''/''' as the mount-point (either by typing or selecting from drop-down menu), and enter '''30720''' in for partition size and click '''Add Mount Point''' button.</li>
 
<li> You will return to the previous dialog box.<br><span style="background-color:yellow">For the '''/''' partition, change the file-system type from '''xfs''' to '''ext4''' and make certain that the Device Type is set to LVM</span>.</li>
 
<li>Repeat the same steps above for the '''/home''' partition (calculate the equivalent size for '''40GB''' ('''ext4''' file-system type and LVM as device type).</li>
 
<li>Add a mount point '''/var/lib/libvirt/images''' (type yourself, check spelling!) for size '''100GB''' (file-system type ext 4 and device type '''LVM''').</li><li>Recheck each of the created partitions, and make certain that the file-system type is set to '''ext4''' and the Device Type should be '''LVM''', unless the instructions above tell you otherwise.</li>
 
<li>Finally, add a swap partition (Mount Point: swap) for '''16 GB'''.</li>
 
<li>Check that your partition settings are correct (you can ask your instructor or lab monitor to confirm), and then click '''Done''' (possibly '''<u>twice</u>''') in order to proceed<br><br></li>
 
<li>A Summary of Changes screen will appear to show the partitioning operations that will be created. Click the '''Accept Changes''' and click '''Begin Installation''' in the Installation Summary screen to proceed with the installation.</li>
 
</ol>
 
  
=== Part 3: Completing the Installation ===
+
===Connecting to the Seneca Student VPN===
 +
[[Image:gp1.png|thumb|right|130px|'''Seneca Student VPN''' ]]
  
{|width="40%" align="right" cellpadding="10"
+
Seneca College is "rolling-out" additional measures to improve '''network security'''. One of these measures is to implement '''multi-factored authentication'''. As of '''September 2020''', all Seneca College students are required to connect to the '''Seneca Student VPN''' in order to be able to connect to their '''Matrix''' Linux account.<br><br>''<b>Multi-factor authentication</b> is an electronic authentication method in which a computer user is granted access to a website or application only after successfully presenting two or more pieces of evidence (or factors) to an authentication mechanism: knowledge (something the user and only the user knows).'' Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-factor_authentication<br><br>You should have received an email message (also available in course announcements) regarding how to setup your Smart Phone to connect and valid via the Seneca Student VPN. '''NOTE:''' If you haven't done this yet, please perform the steps provided in the following link:<br>https://students.senecacollege.ca/spaces/186/it-services/wiki/view/1025/student-vpn<br><br>
|- valign="top"
+
|[[Image:completed.png|thumb|right|500px|This screen indicates that installation is complete. ]]
+
In the next investigation, you will learn how to '''connect''' to and '''login''' to your Matrix server account from a remote computer<br>such as your '''home desktop computer''', '''laptop''' or '''tablet''' computer.<br><br>
|}
 
  
:'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
+
===Connecting to Your Matrix Account===
 +
There are two basic methods to connecting to your Matrix account:
  
#During the installation process, you will required to create a '''root password''' (for administration access) and create a '''regular user account'''. Click on '''Root Password''' and enter your root password. Think of an appropriate password and record that password somewhere in case you forget! An indicator will appear to show you how secure your password is. Retype your root password and click '''Done''' (you may have to click Done <u>twice</u> if your password is not considered to be a strong password).
+
[[Image:cls-shell.png|thumb|right|100px|Connect to Matrix via'''ssh''' command]]
#You need to create a regular user account. This account will be used to graphical log into your host machine. It is never recommended to graphically log into a graphical Linux/Unix system as root. It is better to log into a regular user account, then run a command to login as root (you will learn how to do this later in this lab).
+
:'''Method 1: Run ssh Command from command prompt:'''
#Click '''User Creation''' and enter your '''full name''', '''username''', and an appropriate '''password''' (and confirm password). Click '''Done''' to finish (click twice if password is not considered to be a strong password).
 
<br><br>
 
{|width="50%" cellspacing="0"
 
  
|- valign="top"
+
:After connecting to the '''Seneca Student VPN''', you can open a '''command terminal'''<br>in your '''Newer Windows 10''', '''Mac''' or '''Linux''' computer and issue the following command:<br><br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;">ssh senecauserid@matrix.senecacollege.ca</span><br><br>
 +
[[Image:ssh-main-window.png|thumb|right|100px|Connect to Matrix via '''graphical''' SSH Program ]]
 +
:'''Method 2: Run graphical ssh program via MyApps in Seneca computer lab:'''
 +
:If you are in a Seneca computer lab, you can use MyApps to run a '''graphical SSH application''' for your Windows machine. One advantage of using this method is that you are already at Seneca and are NOT required to connect to the student VPN.<br><br>
 +
'''NOTE:''' You instructor may show you how to run a graphic Linux VM in order to connect to your Matrix account (if interested, refer to the optional tutorial at the end of this semester).
 +
<br><br><br>
  
|{{Admon/important|Keep the root password the same for Host and VMs|In order to simplify running the lab checking scripts in future labs, using the same root password for ALL machines (c7host and virtual machines). Also use the same username and passwords for all of your machines (c7host and virtual machines). <b>Do not do this in a production environment!</b>}}<br><br>
+
=INVESTIGATION 1: ACCESSING YOUR MATRIX LINUX ACCOUNT=
|}
 
<ol><li value="4">When installation is complete, you will notice a message at the bottom of the screen stating: '''CentOS is now successfully installed and ready for you to use!'''</li>
 
<li>Click the '''Reboot''' button. Your DVD will <u>briefly</u> open in the DVD drive bay. Make certain to remove this installation DVD so that CentOS will boot from your hard drive.</li>
 
<li>After the system reboots, a boot menu should briefly appear, then prompt the user to accept the License Information (this is only a one-time occurrence).<br> In order to accept the license agreement, Click on '''License Not Accepted''' and graphically accept the license and then click '''FINISH CONFIGURATION''' to finish the installation process.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' If you have an older version of CentOS 7, you must perform the alternative steps:<br>Issue the following keystrokes:<br><br>'''1''' followed by ENTER (to select the license agreement prompt<br>'''2''' followed by ENTER (to accept the license agreement)<br>'''c''' followed by ENTER (to save the selection)<br>'''c''' followed by ENTER (a second time to continue booting into the system)<br><br></li>
 
<li>The system should then graphically prompt the user to login with their regular user account. Click on your '''regular user account name''' and '''enter your regular user password'''.<br><br></li>
 
<li>The last phase of the installation process should now run:<ul><li>Confirm English as the default input source and click '''Next'''.</li><li>Skip the creation of online accounts by clicking '''Next'''.<li>Start using your installed Linux system by clicking '''Start Using CentOS Linux'''.</li></ul><br></li>
 
<li>Open a web-browser and check to see if you can connect to the Internet.</li>
 
</ol>
 
  
'''Answer Investigation 1 observations (all parts and questions) in your lab log book.'''
+
<span style="color:red;">'''ATTENTION''': Effective '''May 9, 2022''' - this online tutorial will be required to be completed by<br>'''Friday in week 2 by midnight''' to obtain a grade of '''2%''' towards this course</span><br><br>
  
=INVESTIGATION 2: Common Post-Installation Tasks=
+
In this section, you will learn how to access your Matrix Linux account by two different methods:
  
{| width="40%" align="right" cellpadding="10"
+
:* From your '''home computer''' <br>
|- valign="top"
+
:* From a '''workstation in a Seneca College''' lab via '''MyApps'''
|colspan="2"|
 
[[Image:taskbar.png|thumb|right|500px|The '''VM Workstation taskbar''' is useful when in full-screen mode to perform common virtual machine management tasks. ]]
 
|- valign="top"
 
|
 
[[Image:window-mode.png|thumb|right|320px|This diagram shows VMware Workstation running VM in '''window mode'''. This is NOT recommended to work in this mode. You can press '''ALT-CTRL-ENTE'''R to change to fullscreen mode, and then again to toggle back to '''window mode''' if you need to access your main computer. ]]
 
|
 
[[Image:fullscreen-mode.png|thumb|right|300px|It is recommended to run VMware Workstation in '''full screen mode'''.  You can press '''ALT-CTRL-ENTER''' to <u>toggle</u> between window and fullscreen mode. It is recommended that you stay in fullscreen mode for the duration of your lab work. You can press '''ALT-CTRL-ENTER''' to change back  to '''window mode''' if you need to access your main computer. ]]
 
|}
 
===Managing your Virtual Machine===
 
  
In future labs, you will have to run your VMware Workstation application to boot-up your CentOS 7 host VM.
 
Usually, you are NOT required to use this menu (unless you need to "force-off" the c7host7 machine, but should only be performed if you cannot normally shut-down the c7host VM from the OS.
 
  
On the other hand, there are useful short-cut key you should use:
+
===METHOD 1: CONNECTING TO YOUR MATRIX ACCOUNT FROM YOUR HOME COMPUTER===
  
'''ALT-CTRL-ENTER'''
+
[[Image:gp1.png|thumb|right|130px|The '''Seneca Student VPN''' service must be connected.]]
:Toggles the VM Workstation application window between '''full screen mode''' and '''window mode'''.
+
You will now learn a quick and simple method of connecting to your Matrix account by opening<br>a text-based '''terminal''' (in any OS) and issuing the '''ssh command'''.<br><br>
  
'''ALT-CTRL'''
+
'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
:Return focus from your c7host VM to your '''host computer system'''.  
+
# If you want to connect to your Matrix account from home, you MUST first connect to the Seneca Student VPN.<br>Make certain that your '''Seneca Student VPN is connected'''.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' If you haven't set this up, refer to the following link for instructions;<br>https://students.senecacollege.ca/spaces/186/it-services/wiki/view/1025/student-vpn<br><br>You only have to connect to your Seneca student VPN once during the day,<br>or while you are logged into your computer.<br><br>
 +
# Determine which '''operating system''' that your computer is using.<br><br>
 +
# Try connecting to your Matrix account using the instructions in the '''table''' below based on <u>your</u> '''current operating system'''.<br><br>
 +
<table style="margin-left:50px;">
 +
  <tr valign="top" style="text-align:center;">
 +
    <th>'''Newer Version of Windows 10:'''</th>
 +
    <th>'''MacOSX:''' </th>
 +
    <th>'''Linux:''' </th>
 +
  </tr>
 +
  <tr>
 +
<td>
 +
*From the start menu, type '''cmd''' and launch program
 +
*In the command terminal, enter the following command:<br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;font-size:.75em;">ssh senecausername@matrix.senecacollege.ca</span>
 +
    </td>
 +
    <td>
 +
*Click ''Launchpad'' icon, type '''terminal'''<br>and press '''ENTER'''
 +
*In the terminal, enter the following command:<br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;font-size:.75em;">ssh senecausername@matrix.senecacollege.ca</span>
 +
    </td>
 +
    <td>
 +
*From the menu, choose:<br>'''Applications''' > '''System Tools''' > '''Terminal'''
 +
*In the terminal, enter the following command:<br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;font-size:.75em;">ssh senecausername@matrix.senecacollege.ca</span>
 +
    </td>
 +
  </tr>
 +
</table>
 +
<ol><li value="4">When connecting securely for the '''first time''', a '''dialog box''' will appear to share a "'''public key'''" with your Matrix account in order to make your interaction between your workstation and the remote Linux server secure within the network (i.e. encrypted to prevent unauthorized access by other users)<br><br>''<b>FYI:</b> To make communications over a network '''secure''', a computer generates '''two keys''': a '''private key''' that is kept on the computer, and a '''public key''', which can be shared with other computers. Transmissions from your computer uses the private key to encrypt ('''scramble''') transmission to the remote computer, which in turn, uses the public key to decrypt (unscramble) the transmission. Likewise, the remote computer uses the public key to encrypt (scramble) transmissions and your computer uses the private key to decrypt ('''unscramble''') those transmissions.''<br><br></li><li>Type '''yes''' and press '''ENTER''' to share your public key.<br><br>Next, a '''dialog box''' will appear prompting you for your Matrix account '''password''' in order to gain entry to your Matrix account.<br>Your Matrix password is <u>identical</u> to your Seneca password.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' As you type the password, the text may be '''hidden''' to prevent others from viewing your password<br><br></li><li>Enter your Seneca password and press '''ENTER'''<br><br></li>'''NOTE:''' If you encounter an '''error message''', this can occur for several reasons:<ol><li>You mis-spelled the '''name of the server'''</li><li>You mis-spelled your Matrix '''username''' (same username that you connect to ''my.senecacollege.ca'')</li><li>You have '''CAPS LOCK''' on by mistake (your username should be '''lowercase''' only).</li><li>You mis-spelled your '''password''' (same password that you connect to ''my.senecacollege.ca'')<br><br>If you continue to experience the same problems, click on the following link for IT service desk contact info: <br>[https://students.senecacollege.ca/spaces/190/support/wiki/view/1473/contact-its '''IT service desk'''].<br><br></li></ol>
 +
<li>If you entered your password correctly, the '''Matrix Linux shell''' should appear where you can enter Linux commands.<br><br>The '''Matrix''' server has been configured to allow users to '''only interact with the Linux OS by issuing commands'''.<br>The main reason for this is to '''force students to learn how to issue Linux commands'''.<br><br></li><li>To '''exit''' your Matrix session, type the command <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">exit</span> followed by '''ENTER'''<br><br>'''NOTE:''' You should notice that you are returned to the original command prompt where you issued the ''ssh'' command.<br><br></li><li>Type the same command at the '''command terminal prompt''': <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">exit</span> followed by '''ENTER'''<br><br>
 +
'''NOTE:''' You should notice that the you are disconnected and that the original terminal window has '''automatically closed'''.<br><br></li><li>Try accessing your Matrix account, and then exiting your Matrix account several times to become familiar with this process.<br><br>You will now learn an '''alternative method''' to access your Matrix account (if you have an MS Windows machine)<br>by downloading and running a graphical SSH application.</li></ol><br>
  
 +
===METHOD 2: CONNECTING TO YOUR MATRIX ACCOUNT FROM SENECA COMPUTER LAB===
  
'''VMware Tools''' is a collection of utilities to help improve the performance and efficiency of the VM's operating system. Some features include:
+
<span style="color:red;font-weight:bold;">NOTE: This section requires you have access to a Seneca computer lab on campus.<br>If you don't have access to a Seneca computer lab this semester, then you can skip this section</span><br><br>
  
:* Faster Graphics
+
You can also connect to your Matrix server account in the '''Seneca Computer lab via MyApps'''.<br><br>
:* Allow applications running in a VM to be accessed in the host machine (unity interface)
+
One advantage of this method is that your are at the college; therefore, '''you do NOT have to worry about connecting to the Seneca VPN'''. Another advantage of using this method is to introduce you to a '''graphical program''' to allow you connect to your Matrix account as opposed to using the '''ssh''' command (shown in the previous section).<br>
:* Sharing folders between host and VM
 
:* Copying and pasting text between host and among VMs
 
:* Clock synchronization among host and VMs
 
  
It is recommended to install VMware Tools on your system. Click the '''VM''' menu and select '''Install VM Tools'''. The installation program will run in the background until the install is complete.
+
[[Image:apps-anywhere-main-window.png|thumb|right|250px|'''MyApps''' ('''AppsAnywhere''') Main Window ]]
 +
This method would also be useful if you do '''not''' have a home (notebook) computer and have access to a Seneca computer lab workstation.<br><br>
  
 +
'''MyApps''' ('''AppsAnywhere''') is an application streaming service that lets you install software on any Seneca PC on demand. Any software application on the MyApps menu can be used on computers in classrooms, labs, and the Computing Commons.
  
 +
Reference: https://inside.senecacollege.ca/its/software/myapps/
  
{{Admon/caution|Properly Exiting CentOS 7 Session and Safely Removing USB Device|It is '''ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL''' that you do '''NOT''' remove your SSD drive during your CentOS 7 session. You are required to correctly shutdown your CentOS 7 host virtual machine as you would with any operating system. Also, you are required to use the '''Safely Remove Hardware and Eject Media''' tool in the system tray on your Windows machine to properly disconnect your SSD device.
 
<br><br>'''FAILURE TO DO THIS MAY DAMAGE YOUR HOST VM AND NOW ALLOW IT TO BOOT PROPERLY (YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED)'''.}}
 
  
===Part 1: Turning Off Locked Screen-saver===
+
You will now use '''MyApps''' on your Windows workstation in your Seneca lab room to launch an application<br>to allow you to connect and login to your Matrix server account.
 +
[[Image:apps-anywhere.png|thumb|right|250px|Several SSH applications will appear. We will use the application called '''SSH Client''' for this practice tutorial. ]]
  
Your system automatically enables a '''screen-saver''' application which is a useful security tool to prevent unauthorized viewing of information on a terminal after a certain amount of inactivity. Turning-off the locked screen-saver for this (and other) virtual machine can be useful when waiting for your instructor to come over to "sign-off" your computer lab without having to re-issue user passwords.
 
  
'''To Disable the Locked Screen-saver, Perform the following steps:'''
+
'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
  
#Click on the '''power button at the top right-hand corner of the window'''.
+
# Start your workstation in your lab and login to your Seneca Windows account.<br><br>
#Click the '''Settings''' icon (bottom left-hand side of menu - looks like a screw-driver and wrench icon.
+
# Make certain that the '''MyApps''' window is open. This window should have opened shortly after you logged into your Windows workstation. If the application windows is not open, click on the '''MyApps''' icon on the desktop to launch).<br><br>[[Image:ssh-main-window.png|thumb|right|150px|SSH Client Application Window ]]<span style="color:red;font-weight:bold;">NOTE: You may be required to validate in order to use MyApps correctly. If you see near the top of the screen "requires validation", then click on that area to connect to validate.</span><br><br>
#Click the '''Power''' icon located in the ''Settings'' Dialog Box
+
# Click on the '''Search Apps''' area located in the top right corner of the MyApps window and type the word: <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">ssh</span><br><br>
#Change the amount of time in the '''Power Saving''' section to '''Never''' or a '''longer period of time'''
+
# Several SSH applications will appear. <br><br>'''NOTE:''' All of these applications allow you to connect to your Matrix account.<br>We will use the application called '''SSH Secure Shell Client''' for this practice tutorial.<br><br>
#Close the ''Settings'' Dialog box.
+
# Launch the '''SSH Secure Shell Client''' application icon to launch this program.<br><br>[[Image:quick-connect-window.png|thumb|right|150px|Quick Connect Dialog Box ]]'''NOTE:''' Prior to launching the application, you can add this to your '''favourites''' which will make it faster<br>to access this application in the future.<br><br>
 +
# The main SSH Client window will appear. Click on the '''Quick Connect''' button.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' The Connect dialog box allows the user to specify the '''server name''' and your '''account name'''<br>to allow you to connect to the server.<br><br>
 +
# Click on the textbox labelled Hostnanme and enter the text: <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">matrix</span><br><br>'''NOTE:''' You can use the hostname '''matrix''' since you are located <u>inside</u> Seneca's network.<br>If you where located <u>outside</u> Seneca's network, then you would need to enter the full domain name: '''matrix.senecac.on.ca'''<br><br>[[Image:share-public-key.png|thumb|right|150px|Dialog Box to Share Public Key on Remote Server ]]
 +
# When connecting securely for the '''first time''', a dialog box will appear to share a "public key" with your Matrix account in order to make your interaction between your workstation and the remote Linux server secure within the network (i.e. encrypted to prevent unauthorized access by other users)<br><br>'''FYI:''' To make communications over a network secure, a computer generates '''two keys''': a '''private key''' that is kept on the computer, and a '''public key''', which can be shared with other computers. Transmissions from your computer uses the private key to encrypt (scramble) transmission to the remote computer, which in turn, uses the public key to decrypt (unscramble) the transmission. Likewise, the remote computer uses the public key to encrypt (scramble) transmissions and your computer uses the private key to decrypt (unscramble) those transmissions.<br><br>[[Image:ssh-password-prompt.png|thumb|right|150px|Password Dialog Box ]]
 +
# Click the '''Yes''' button to share your public key.<br><br>
 +
# Next, a dialog box will appear prompting you for your Matrix account password in order to gain entry to your Matrix account. Your Matrix password is identical to your Seneca password. As you type the password, the text will be blocked-out or hidden to prevent others from viewing the screen to obtain your password[[Image:ssh-authentication-response.png|thumb|right|150px|Authentication Response Dialog Box ]]<br><br>
 +
# Enter your password and click '''OK''' or press '''ENTER'''<br><br>[[Image:ssh-login-error.png|thumb|right|150px|SSH Login Error ]]
 +
# Click '''OK''' or press '''ENTER''' at the '''Authentication Response''' dialog box.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' If you encounter an '''error message''', this can occur for several reasons:<ol><li>You mis-spelled the '''name of the server'''</li><li>You mis-spelled your Matrix '''username''' (same username that you connect to my.senecacollege.ca)</li><li>You have '''CAPS LOCK''' on by mistake (your username should be '''lowercase''' only).</li><li>You mis-spelled your '''password''' (same password that you connect to my.senecacollege.ca)</li></ol><br>If you continue to experience the same problems, click on the following link for IT service desk contact info: <br>[https://students.senecacollege.ca/spaces/190/support/wiki/view/1473/contact-its '''IT service desk'''].<br><br>[[Image:ssh-shell-window.png|thumb|right|150px|Matrix Shell Command Line Interface ]]
 +
#If you entered your password correctly, the main SSH Linux shell should appear where you enter Linux commands.<br><br>The '''Matrix''' server has been configured to allow users to '''only interact with the Linux OS by issuing commands'''. There are various reasons for this, but the main 2 reasons are to '''force students to learn how to issue Linux commands''' as well as '''limitations to remote access to a graphical Linux server''' due to large number of users (students).<br><br>[[Image:ssh-settings-window.png|thumb|right|150px|SSH Settings Dialog Box ]]
  
 +
You can '''configure''' the SSH application to adjust elements such as the '''window size''' and '''text font type''' and text '''font size'''. We will be showing you how to configure your SSH Secure Shell Client, but the other applications can allow you to configure their settings.<br><br>
  
===Part 2: Accessing Administrative Privileges===
+
'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
{|width="40%" align="right" cellpadding="10"
 
|- valign="top"
 
|
 
{{Admon/note|Accessing the Administration Account (root)| Many administrative tasks require the root administrative account. There are many ways to access this administration account:<ul><li>Login: '''root'''  (enter root password)</li><li>Switch User to root (without login):<ul><li>'''su''': Remains in regular user's directory, does not run root's startup script(s).</li><li>'''su -''' : Changes to root's home directory (/root) and runs root's start script(s).</li></ul></li></ul>}}
 
|}
 
  
:'''Perform the following steps:'''
+
# Click on the '''Edit''' menu item, and then select '''Settings''' in the Edit drop-down menu.<br><br>
 +
# To change the size of your shell window, under the ''Global Settings'' section, click '''Appearance'''<br><br>
 +
# Change the ''window size'' both horizontal and vertical to larger values.<br><br>
 +
# To change the font size, under the ''Global Settings'' section, click '''Font'''<br><br>
 +
# Select a larger ''font size'' and click '''OK'''<br><br>
 +
# You now should notice that you have customized your SSH shell terminal. You can use the settings screen to also change your background and text colours if you are interested in doing so.<br><br>
 +
# To exit your Matrix session, type the following command and press ENTER: <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">exit</span><br><br>'''NOTE:''' You should notice that the colour of the text changes slightly when disconnected and you are unable to issue Linux commands from that window.<br><br>
 +
# After you have disconnected from your account, close the SSH Secure Shell Client application window.<br><br>
 +
# It is recommended to repeat these steps with connecting to your Matrix account from a Seneca lab workstation until you become comfortable with the process.<br><br>
  
#Refer to the Information box regarding how to access the admin account from the command line.
+
In the next investigation, you will learn how to issue Linux commands from the command prompt (referred to as the "shell"), learn how to get help with Linux commands, use command-line editing short cut keys, and run a program to confirm that you connected to your Matrix account in order to get marks for this online tutorial.<br><br>
#Issue the command <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">su</span></code></b>. This will switch you to the '''root account'''. From there, issue the <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">pwd</span></code></b> and <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">whoami</span></code></b> commands to confirm your directory pathname. When finished logout of this account using the command <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">exit</span></code></b>.
 
#Issue the command <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">su -</span></code></b>. Issue the <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">pwd</span></code></b> and <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">whoami</span></code></b> commands to confirm your directory pathname. What do you notice are the main differences between using '''su''' versus using '''su -''' ?
 
# An installation log file called  <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">/var/log/anaconda/packaging.log</span></code></b> has been created to record the installation of your c7host machine. This file is an ASCII file which can be viewed with the <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">more</span></code></b> command.
 
# You can make use of this file to determine how many packages have been installed: complete the following command to count the number of packages that are labelled "Installing" in the installation log file:
 
:: <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">grep -i packaging /var/log/anaconda/packaging.log | wc -l'''</span></code></b>
 
  
===Part 3: Disable SELinux===
+
=INVESTIGATION 2: USING THE LINUX SHELL =
  
{{Admon/important|Never disable SELinux in the real world| It is highly discouraged and unsafe to disable SELinux on a public-facing server. Some applications may require tedious steps to setup SELinux rules. Disabling SELinux is never the correct way to solve an issue.}}
+
<br>
 +
In this investigation, you will learn how to use the Linux Shell. Topics in the section include:
  
SELinux stands for '''Security-Enhanced Linux'''. It is a component that helps to better secure the system to protect against intrusion (hackers). SELinux is enabled upon the default install of CentOS. SELinux can be a good thing, if you take care of it and know how it works. For this course it is strongly recommended that you '''disable SELinux by default''' because we won't have the time to reconfigure it every time the labs make it necessary.
+
:* Learn the basic '''Linux command structure''' (''arguments'' and ''options'')
 +
:* Learn how to get '''help''' for Linux commands via the '''online manual''' (i.e. '''man''' command).
 +
:* Perform '''Basic Shell Editing'''
 +
:* Issue a '''program''' to confirm that you connected to your Matrix account<br><br>
  
:'''Perform the following Steps:'''
+
The Bash shell in Matrix allows you to interact with your Matrix account by issuing commands.
  
# Make sure you're logged in as root. <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">su -</span></code></b>
+
'''The General Linux Command Structure is as follows:'''<br><span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">command argument1 argument2 ... </span>
# Edit the file '''/etc/selinux/config''': <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">vim /etc/selinux/config</span></code></b>
 
# In the editing session,  set '''SELINUX''' to '''<u>disabled</u>''' (from ''enforcing'') and save your editing session.
 
# Restart your VM.
 
# You can check the status of SELinux at any time at the command line by typing: <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">sestatus</span></code></b>
 
  
=== Part 4: Perform Software Updates===
+
Some Linux commands can be issued by entering the Linux command line without arguments (e.g. '''pwd''', '''date''', '''ls''', '''cal'''),<br>but many Linux commands can be issued with arguments (e.g. '''cal 2002''', '''cd /bin''', '''ls -l -a /bin''' ).<br><br>
 +
'''What Does an Argument Represent?'''
  
Running software updates regularly is an important part of keeping your computer secure and stable. On Linux, we use package managers to install software and updates. Package managers not only perform installations, but they keep track of everything that is currently installed on the system for easy management. For CentOS, this manager is called yum. Yum is also the command used.
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An '''argument''' can respresent:
 +
:* a '''file pathname'''
 +
:* a command '''option'''
 +
:* a series of characters (i.e. '''text''') that the command can use
  
:'''Perform the following steps:'''
+
An '''argument''' is <u>separated</u> from a command (or from other arguments) by a '''SPACE''', '''MULTIPLE SPACES''' or a '''TAB'''.<br><br>
  
# Open Terminal.
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'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
# Login as root: <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">su -</span></code></b>
 
# Type: <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.3em;">yum update</span></code></b>
 
# Follow the prompts.
 
# If there is a kernel update, reboot your system. (There usually is on a first update after OS installation.)
 
  
'''Answer Investigation 2 observations (all parts and questions) in your lab log book.'''
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# Make certain that you are logged into your Matrix account.<br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">pwd</span><br><br>The output from this Linux command basically shows your '''current location''' in the Matrix server.<br>This represents a '''directory pathname''' to your home directory. We will discuss ''pathnames'' later in this course.<br><br>
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# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ls</span><br><br>What do you notice?<br><br>If there were any files in your home directory, just their file names would be displayed.<br><br>
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# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cd /bin</span><br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command to confirm your current location: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">pwd</span><br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ls</span><br><br>What do you notice?<br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command using an '''option''': <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ls -l</span><br><br>What do you notice?<br><br>The '''-l''' option with the '''ls''' command provides a '''detailed''' ("''long''") listing of files providing more information on a separate line for each file.<br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command to return to your home directory: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cd</span><br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command to confirm your current location: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">pwd</span><br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ls /bin</span><br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command to confirm your current location: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">pwd</span><br><br>What do you notice?<br><br>What makes this command with that argument useful if you are current located in your home directory?<br><br>
 +
# Issue a Linux command that you have already learned to change to your '''home''' directory<br>and to '''confirm''' that you have returned to your home directory.<br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">clear</span><br><br>What do you notice? How would this command be helpful?<br>'''FYI:''' The short-cut keys to clear the screen for the Bash shell is: <span style="font-family:courier;color:font-weight:bold">ctrl-l</span><br><br>
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# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">who</span><br><br>What information does this command show?<br><br>This command lists users that are logged into the same Matrix server as yourself.<br>'''NOTE:''' Remember that the Matrix Linux cluster contains several servers, so it does not display<br>all users that are logged onto those other machines within that cluster!<br><br>
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# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">whoami</span><br><br>What does this command display? What do you think is the purpose of this command?<br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cal</span><br><br>What is the purpose of this command?<br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cal 2021</span><br><br>What is the purpose of this command using this argument?<br><br>
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# Issue the following Linux command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cal 2 2021</span><br><br>What is the purpose of this command using those two '''numbers''' as arguments?<br><br>
 +
'''Getting Help with Linux Commands'''
  
= INVESTIGATION 3: Using Shell Scripting to Generate System Information Reports =
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With the Linux OS containing over '''2500''' commands and utilities, it is good for a Linux user or <br>Linux system administrator (sysadmin) to learn about how to use commands “on-the-fly”.<br><br>
{|width="40%" align="right" cellpadding="10"
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The '''man''' command can provide information on how to use a command<br>(i.e. '''command usage''', '''acceptable command arguments''', '''command options''', '''examples''').<br><br>
|- valign="top"
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# Issue the following command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">man man</span><br><br>You may notice that the online manual categories commands into sections or '''numbered volumes'''.<br><br>
|
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# Type the '''SPACE''' key to move to the next screen.<br><br>How many '''volume numbers''' are contained in the man pages (like '''executable commands''',<br>'''games''', or '''system administrator commands''')?<br><br>'''TIP:''' You can use the following '''short-cut keys''' within the man command to <br>help navigate throughout this utility to get help with the ls command (refer to table below):<br><br><table cellpadding="3"><tr><th style="border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Keyboard Shortcut</th><th style="border-bottom: 1px solid black;">Purpose</th></tr><tr><td>'''ENTER'''</td><td>Move down one line</td></tr><tr><td>'''SPACEBAR'''</td><td>Move one screen down</td></tr><tr><td>'''&lt;ctrl&gt;&lt;b&gt;'''</td><td>Move one screen up</td></tr><tr><td>'''/pattern/'''</td><td>Search for Pattern</td></tr><tr><td>'''q'''</td><td>quit man utility</td></tr></table><br>
{{Admon/note|Bash Shell Scripting Reference Guide:|<br>'''<u>She-bang Line</u>'''<ul><li>Forces shell script to run in a specific Shell</li><li>Must be at beginning of first line (eg. '''#!/bin/bash''')<br><br></li></ul>'''<u>Variables</u>'''<blockquote>'''Environment'''<ul><li>System-wide or "global" variable</li><li>Usually appear in UPPERCASE letters</li><li>Can view with command: '''set &#124; more'''</li><li>'''$''' in front to expand variable to value<li>Examples: '''USER''', '''PATH''', '''HOME''', '''SHELL'''</li></ul></blockquote><blockquote>'''User-defined''' <ul><li>Variable created by user (command line, scripting)</li><li>Examples:<br>''myVar&#61;"my value"; readonly myVar; export myVar''<br>''read -p "enter value: " myVar''</li></ul></blockquote><blockquote>'''Positional parameters'''<ul><li>Assign values with set command or shell script arguments</li><li>These variables are numbered (eg. $1, $2 ... $10}</li><li>Special parameters: $*, $@, $#, $$, $?<br></li></ul></blockquote>'''<u>Command Substitution</u>'''<ul><li>Useful method to expand output from a command to be used as an argument for another command.</li><li>Examples:<br>''file $(ls)''<br>''set $(ls);echo $#;echo $*''<br>''echo "hostname: $(hostname)"''<br><br></li></ul>'''<u>if / elif / else statements</u>'''<ul><li>If a command runs (even pipeline command like to grep to match) will be true (0); otherwise, false (non-zero), thus can use with logic statements.</li>Example:<br>''if echo $myVar &#124; grep "match"''<br>''then''<br>''echo "Match"''<br>''fi''<br></li><li>The '''test''' command is used to test conditions. Square brackets '''[ ]''' is short-cut for test command (args contained inside with spaces). The '''exit''' command can be used to terminate the shell script with a false value.<br>Example:<br>''if [ $USER &#61; "root" ]''<br>''then''<br>&nbsp;''echo "You must be root" ''<br>&nbsp;''exit1''<br>''fi''<br></li><li>For numberic comparison, use the  '''test options''': '''-gt''','''-ge''', '''-lt''', '''-le''', '''-eq''', '''-ne'''<br>Example:<br>''if [ $grade -gt 79 ]''<br>''then''<br>&nbsp;''echo "You get Good Mark"''<br>''elif [ $grade -gt 49 ]''<br>''then''<br>&nbsp;''echo "You pass"''<br>''else''<br>&nbsp;''echo "You fail"''<br>''fi''<br></li><li>For testing for file information, you can use '''-d''' to test if directory pathname exists, and '''-f''' if the file pathname exists. You can use  '''!''' for negation.<br>Examples:<br>''if [ -d directory-pathname ]''<br>''then''<br> ''echo "directory exists"''<br>''fi''<br><br>''if [ ! - f file-pathname ]''<br>''then''<br> ''echo "File does not exist"''<br>''fi''</li></ul>}}
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# Press the letter <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">q</span> to exit the man command.<br><br>
|}
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# Issue the following Linux command to get help with the ls command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">man ls</span><br><br>
 +
# Navigate through the man utility for the '''ls''' Linux command and note the '''option letters''' that correspond to the following descriptions:<br><ul><li>"'''use a long lising format'''"</li><li>"'''do not ignore entries starting with .'''" (i.e. hidden files)</li><li>"'''sort by file size'''"</li><li>"'''append indicator (one of */=>&|) to entries'''" (i.e. type of file)</li></ul><br>
 +
# Exit the man utility for the ''ls'' command.<br><br>
 +
# Issue the '''ls''' command for <u>each</u> of those option letters you noted in '''step 5''' to see how this command differs for each option.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' The '''man''' utility can be used with the '''-k''' option to help list Linux commands that match a text pattern<br>that is contained within the help screen for a Linux command.<br><br>
 +
# '''Pipeline commands''' can be used to filter-out unnecessary output. In the next command that you will be issuing,<br>the output from the '''man -k''' command, is sent into the '''grep''' command to ''filter'' (i.e. ''trap'') only output that matches the pattern "8"<br>(The number "8" refers to the category of type of command - in this case, administration commands).<br><br>We will learn more about pipeline commands later in this course.<br><br>
 +
# Issue the following Linux pipeline command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">man -k user | grep 8</span><br><br>How does this ''pipeline command'' make it easier to obtain information regarding man command?<br><br>
 +
# If you wish to change your password, you can change it by issuing the command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">passwd</span><br>What option for the passwd command can be used to change user info (such as name)?<br>'''Hint:''' use the '''man''' command for '''passwd'''.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' Do '''NOT''' run the ''passwd'' command. Unique for this college, your Matrix password<br>is changed automatically when you change your '''myseneca''' password.<br><br><br>
 +
# Press the letter <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">q</span> to exit the man command.<br><br>You will now learn how to perform '''command line editing'''<br>to correct syntax errors while typing Linux commands PRIOR to pressing the ENTER key.<br><br>
  
 +
'''Command Line Editing'''
 +
[[Image:command-line-editing.png|thumb|right|520px|Command Line Editing Shortcut Keys. ]]
  
It is very common for System Administrators to keep records regarding their installed computer systems. For example, it is necessary to have a record of all the hardware information for each machine in order to help fix computer hardware problems, and to assist when purchasing additional consistent computer hardware.
 
  
Therefore, it makes sense to also have a record of the installed computer software as well. This can contain information regarding the Linux operating system, installed software, and network connectivity information.
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Learning '''shortcut keys''' in any OS terminal will allow you to be more productive as a ''Linux user'' or ''Linux System Administrator'' (commonly referred to as: '''Linux sysadmin''').<br><br><br>Let's learn a few common Bash Shell keyboard shortcut keys and find out where you can access online help for additional shortcuts (if required).
  
  
:'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
 
  
# Study the Linux commands and their purpose to note computer software information for your installed c7hostVM. You should take time to issue each of these commands to view the output, and record this chart in your lab1 logbook.<br><br>
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'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
# Login to your c7hostVM, open a Bash Shell terminal, and login as root by issuing the command:<br><b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">su -</span></code></b><br><br>
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[[Image:meta-key.png|thumb|right|370px|To make '''alt-f''' key work, select '''Edit''' -> '''Settings''' -> '''Keyboard''', and select the checkbox '''Use ALT as Meta key (and Escape)'''.]]
# Make certain to '''<u>record output</u>''' from these commands (except for the '''ps -ef''' output) in your lab1 logbook.
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# Type the following Linux command, but DON’T press the ''ENTER'' key:<br><span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">cd /bin</span><br><br>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-a</span> key combination. What happens?<br><br>'''NOTE:''' To make '''alt-f''' key work when use the '''GRAPHICAL Windows SSH Client application''', select '''Edit''' -> '''Settings''' -> '''Keyboard''', and select the checkbox '''Use ALT as Meta key (and Escape)'''.<br><br>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">alt-f</span> key combination '''two times'''<br>(OPTION+right-arrow for Mac OSx).<br><br>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">alt-b</span> key combination '''one time'''.<br>(OPTION+left-arrow for Mac OSx).<br><br><table align="right"><tr valign="top"><td>[[Image:ctrl-b.png|thumb|right|150px|'''alt-b''' moves one word backwards for Windows OS]]</td><td>[[Image:ctrl-w.png|thumb|right|150px|'''ctrl-w''' deletes a word to <u>left</u> of the cursor.]]</td><td>[[Image:new-ls.png|thumb|right|150px|After command is deleted, then type new command and press '''ctrl-e''' to move to end of the command line.]]</td></tr></table>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-w</span> shortcut key. What happens?<br><br>
 +
# Type the following command: <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ls</span><br><br>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-e</span> key combination<br><br>What happens?<br><br>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ENTER</span> key to execute the command.<br><br>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">up arrow</span> key. What happens?<br><br>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-u</span> key combination. What happens?<br><br>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">up arrow</span> key combination, and see what happens when you press <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">BACKSPACE</span> , <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">&lt;ctrl&gt;&lt;BACKSPACE&gt;</span> and <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">&lt;ctrl&gt;&lt;h&gt;</span>.<br>Why is it important to know those series of key combinations?<br><br>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-u</span> key combination to clear the line.<br><br>
 +
# Press the <span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">ctrl-l</span> key combination. What happens? What is the advantage of using '''ctrl-u''' as opposed to '''ctrl-l'''?<br><br>The Bash shortcut keys that you just learned are sufficient to perform Bash Shell editing.<br>Although you are NOT required to learn other short-cut keys, here is a link to a listing in case you are interested:<br>[https:// ostechnix.com/list-useful-bash-keyboard-shortcuts/ Useful Bash Shell Keyboard Shortcuts]<br><br>
 +
'''Running a Shell Script to Check Student Online Tutorial Participation'''
  
 +
Professors will require students successfully perform these online tutorials for marks (within a deadline). <br>In order to confirm that you successfully performed a tutorial, you will be required to run a program<br>(or in later tutorials, several programs) to prove that you successfully completed tasks in a tutorial and get marks.
  
<table cellspacing="0" cellpadding="5" width="50%" style="border-top: thin solid black;margin-left:60px;">
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These programs (known as Shell Scripts) will check your work and offer feedback if you made mistakes, so you can make corrections.<br>Making corrections (i.e. troubleshooting) and re-running these checking programs until you are successful will help students<br>gain "hands-on" experience as well as "trouble-shooting experience.
<caption>'''Linux/Unix System Information Utilities'''</caption>
 
<tr valign="top>
 
  
  <td  style="border-bottom: thin solid black;font-weight:bold;background-color:#ffffff;">Command(s)</td>
 
  <td style="border-bottom: thin solid black;font-weight:bold;background-color:#ffffff;">Purpose</td>
 
</tr>
 
<tr valign="top">
 
  <td  width="20%" style="border-bottom: thin solid black;"><b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">uname -rv</span></code></b><br><b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">hostname</span></code></b><br><b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">ps -ef</span></code></b></td>
 
  <td  width="20%" style="border-bottom: thin solid black;">Basic Linux OS information such as '''kernel''' version, '''host-name''' of Linux server, and all '''processes''' that are running on the system after installation.</td>
 
</tr>
 
<tr valign="top">
 
  <td  width="20%" style="border-bottom: thin solid black;"><b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">rpm -q -a | wc -l'''</span></code></b><br><b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">rpm -q -a -l | wc -l'''</span></code></b><br><b><code><span style=" pointer-events:none;cursor:default;color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">rpm -q -l gedit | wc -l</span></code></b></td>
 
  <td  width="20%" style="border-bottom: thin solid black;">Obtain number of installed packages in the rpm database. Option '''-q''' is to "query" information, option '''-a''' means for all installed packages, option '''-l''' means all files installed as opposed to just the application.</td>
 
</tr>
 
  
<tr valign="top">
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<table align="right"><tr valign="top"><td>[[Image:script-check-1.png|thumb|right|250px|If all all check pass, then user performed can proceed.]]</td><td>[[Image:script-check-2.png|thumb|right|450px|If there is a warning, then feedback is provided to user to correct and re-run checking script.]]</td></table>
  <td  width="20%" style="border-bottom: thin solid black;"><b><code><span  style="pointer-events: none;cursor: default;color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">ifconfig</span></code></b><br><b><code><span  style="pointer-events: none;cursor: default;color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">route -n</span></code></b><br><b><code><span  style="pointer-events: none;cursor: default;color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">nslookup</span> (at prompt, enter command: server) </code></b></td>
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If you have correctly completed the required tasks, the user can proceed. If the checking shell script detects an '''error''', then it will provide feedback to allow the student to fix that problem so they can re-run the checking shell scripts until they have successfully completed a task.
  <td  width="20%" style="border-bottom: thin solid black;">Obtain network connectivity confirmation including: '''IP ADDRESS''', '''Netmask''', '''routing''' (default gateway), and the default '''Domain Name Server'''.</td>
 
</tr>
 
</table>
 
  
  
:You may have learned about creating and running Bash Shell Scripts in your ULI101 course. Shell scripts help Linux users and system administrators to automate repetitive tasks to become more efficient and to help them save time. You will be reviewing and building a basic Bash Shell script to generate information reports for your newly-installed Linux host machine.
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'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
  
 +
# Make certain that your current directory is '''your home directory'''<br>By entering the following Linux command:<br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;font-family:courier;">cd</span><br><br>
 +
#Issue the following command to run a checking script :<br><span style="font-family:courier;color:blue;font-weight:bold">~uli101/week1-check</span><br><br>The beginning character "'''~'''" is called '''tilde'''. You get this character by pressing '''SHIFT''' + '''`'''<br>(which is the key to the left of the number 1 on your keyboard). <br><br>
 +
# Your screen should clear and indicate that you have proved that you have successfully logged in.<br><br>
 +
# An email will be sent to your Seneca email as '''confirmation''' in case your ULI101 professor is assigning marks to these tutorials.<br><br>Keep those confirmation email messages for the duration of this semester as proof that you have completed those checking scripts in case there is a discrepancy in tutorial grades.<br><br>
  
<ol><li value="4">Refer to the Bash Shell Scripting Guide prior to proceeding with this section. As you continue, you are required to make Bash Shell scripting notes in your lab1 logbook.</li>
+
<!--
<li>Create a directory called bin in your root home directory to store your shell scripts by issuing the command:<br><b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">mkdir /root/bin</span></code></b></li>
 
<li>Change to that newly-created '''bin''' directory</li>
 
</ol>
 
  
 +
NOTE: ONLINE ASSIGNMENTS ARE RETIRED AND REPLACED WITH ONLINE TUTORIALS and REVIEW QUESTIONS
  
:'''NOTE:''' Although it is possible to copy and paste, is it highly recommended to manually enter the following Bash Shell scripting content to become familiar with writing Bash Shell scripting code. Remember: you will be required to create a Bash Shell script on your final exam, so you need the practice!
+
===Part 2: Performing Online Assignments ===
  
 +
You are required to perform '''3 online assignments''' throughout this course. This online assignment is used to teach and reinforce<br>Linux commands to gain experience for '''quizzes''', '''test 1''' (midterm) and '''test 2''' (final).
  
<ol>
+
In this investigation, you will learn to:
<li value="7">Launch a text editor (such as <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">vim</span></code></b> or <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">nano</span></code></b>) to create a Bash Shell script called: <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">myreport.bash</span></code></b> in your current directory.</li>
+
* '''Select the correct section''' for assignment submission
<li>Copy and paste the text below into your vi editing session for your file report.bash<br> (how do you copy and paste efficiently in Linux?)<br></li></ol>
+
* Perform the '''first section''' and '''3 parts of the second section''' of assignment #1
 +
* '''Verify''' that you successfully completed both sections
 +
* '''Exit''' your online assignment #1.
  
<code style="color:#3366CC;font-family:courier;font-size:.9em;margin-left:20px;font-weight:bold;">
 
<br>
 
&#35;!/bin/bash<br>
 
<br>
 
&#35; Author: *** INSERT YOUR NAME ***<br>
 
&#35; Date:  *** CURRENT DATE ***<br>
 
&#35;<br>
 
&#35; Purpose: Creates system info report<br>
 
&#35;<br>&#35; USAGE: ./myreport.bash<br>
 
<br>
 
if [ $USER != "root" ]  # only runs if logged in as root<br>
 
then<br>&nbsp;echo "You must be logged in as root." >&2<br>
 
&nbsp;exit 1<br>
 
fi<br>
 
</code>
 
<br>
 
<ol><li value="9">Save your editing session, assign the '''myreport.bash''' file read and execute permissions (at least for the owner) and run by typing:<br><b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">./myreport.bash</span></code></b></li><li> Did it work?</li><li>Reopen your text-editing session for '''/root/bin/myreport.bash''' and add the following lines of code to the bottom of the shell script file:</ol>
 
<br>
 
<code style="color:#3366CC;font-family:courier;font-size:.9em;font-weight:bold;">
 
&#35; Create report title<br>
 
<br>
 
echo "SYSTEM REPORT" > /root/report.txt<br>
 
echo "Date: $(date +'%A %B %d, %Y (%H:%M:%p)')" >> /root/report.txt<br>
 
echo  >> /root/report.txt<br>
 
</code>
 
<br>
 
<ol><li value="8">Save and run the bash shell script. View the contents of the file called '''report.txt''' that was generated (I hope you are using the up arrow key to issue previously issued commands in order to save time!). Notice how the redirection symbol &gt; is used at the beginning of the report, and then the other redirection symbol &gt;&gt; is used to help "grow" the report with the other content.</li><li>The only remaining content of the report would be the system information. We can use a shell scripting trick called "command substitution" $( .. ) in order place results from an command to be used by another command (like echo). Re-edit the shell script and add the following code at the bottom of the shell script file:</li></ol>
 
<br>
 
<code style="color:#3366CC;font-family:courier;font-size:.9em;font-weight:bold;">
 
echo "Hostname: $(hostname)"  >> /root/report.txt<br>
 
echo  >> /root/report.txt<br>
 
echo "Kernel Version: $(uname -rv)"  >> /root/report.txt<br>
 
echo  >> /root/report.txt<br>
 
</code>
 
 
<br>
 
<br>
<ol><li value="10">Save, run the script, and view the ''report.txt'' contents (are you using tip that was given to save time?).</li><li>Edit the shell script and include output from the <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">ps aux</span></code></b> and <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">ifconfig</span></code></b> commands (with appropriate titles). Remember to redirect that output to add to the bottom of the file!</li><li>Save, run and confirm that the shell script is working correctly.</li><li>What would be the use of keeping this shell script as a Linux system administrator?</li></ol>
+
'''Perform the following steps:'''
<ol><li value="14">Here are some more "complex" Bash Shell scripts, that perform the same task. Although you are not require to understand some of these other tricks, it is recommended that you view the contents of the scripts and save them for future consideration or examples.</li><li>The <b><code>wget</code></b> command can be used to quickly download files from the Internet. Issue the following command:<br><b><code><span style="pointer-events: none;cursor: default;color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">wget https://ict.senecacollege.ca/~ops235/labs/text-report.bash</span></code></b></li><li>Verify that the file '''text-report.bash''' was downloaded to your current directory.</li><li>Assign read and execute permissions for this file by issuing the command: <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">chmod u+rx text-report.bash</span></code></b></li><li>Run this Bash Shell script by issuing the command: <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">./text-report.bash</span></code></b></li><li>Check to see if it created a report in your current directory. What is the purpose of the report?</li><li>Use the <b>vi</b> text editor to view the contents of the file <b>text-report.bash</b>. Can you understand how this script works?<br><br></li><li>Use the <b><code>wget</code></b> command to download, study, and run the following shell scripts on-line:<br><b><code><span style=" pointer-events:none;cursor:default;color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">https://ict.senecacollege.ca/~ops235/labs/report.bash<br>&nbsp;https://ict.senecacollege.ca/~ops235/labs/report3.bash</span></code></b><br><br></li><li>Try to understand what these Bash Shell scripts do.</li><li>You have completed lab1. Proceed to Completing The Lab, and follow the instructions for "lab sign-off".</li></ol>
+
[[Image:Assn-initial-window3.png|thumb|right|250px|Initial Assignment Window to Allow Student to Select Correct Course Section. ]]
 +
# In your Matrix account, issue the following command:<br><span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold;font-family:courier">~uli101/a1</span><br><br>
 +
# Press '''ENTER''' at the "Notes" screen.<br><br>
 +
# A screen similar to the one displayed on the right will appear.<br><br><span style="color:red;">'''WARNING''': You need to select the <u>'''CORRECT'''</u> section for the course which you belong to.<br>If you do <u>NOT</u> select your correct section, your assignment may not be recorded for marks!</span><br><br>
 +
# Determine your '''ULI101 three-letter course section code''' from your timetable.<br><br>
 +
# Select the '''3 letter code''' corresponding to the <u>correct</u> '''ULI101 <u>section</u>''' and '''professor''' and press <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">ENTER</span><br><br>
 +
# After you have selected your course section, There will be a screen that provides several important notes before proceeding.<br>Please take a few moments to read those notes and press <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">ENTER</span> to proceed.<br><br>[[Image:assn-section-completion.png|thumb|right|250px|Main Assignment Window to View Which Sections Need to be Completed. ]]
 +
# The assignment main menu will then be displayed.<br><br>'''NOTES:'''<ul><li>Near the bottom of the window, you will see '''"You are currently registered to"''' followed by the '''section letter''' and '''instructor name'''. Double-check your course timetable to confirm that this the correct section letter. If you have selected the WRONG section, type  <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">C</span> in the menu selection area and press <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">ENTER</span>. You will return back to the original window to select your correct course section.<br><br></li><li>Near the top of the window displays the sections to complete in the assignment. You are NOT required to complete all sections at the same time. You can check the assignment #1 link on the ULI101 main WIKI page to note the due date for assignment #1. Sections that are NOT completed will be displayed in '''reverse text with a blue background'''. On the other hand, when you compete a section, then the section will appear as regular text (i.e not in reverse text).<br><br>[[Image:assn-completed-window.png|thumb|right|250px|Main Assignment Window to Confirm Which Sections Have or Have Not Been Completed. ]]</li><li>If you want to verify that you have completed sections for the assignment, look for the text '''"Marks earned so far for ULI101 Assignment:"''' and it will show how many sections have been completed. When it shows all sections completed, then your assignment is finished and you should receive full marks provided that you have selected your correct course section.<br><br></li></ul>
 +
# At the '''Selections Available''' menu, enter <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">1</span> in the menu selection area to begin the first section called '''"Introduction to Unix Commands"'''.<br><br>
 +
# When you have completed this section, you will be returned to the main window.<br>View the contents of this window to confirm that you completed this section.<br><br>
 +
# When you have time this week, enter <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">2</span> in the menu selection area and perform the first 3 parts only<br>('''Unix Command Structure''', '''Entering and Editing Commands''', '''Using the Online Manual''').<br><br>
 +
# When you have completed this section, you will be returned to the main window.<br>View the contents of this window to confirm that you completed this section.<br><br>'''NOTE:''' Although you are NOT allowed to use reference sheets for course evaluations, it is recommended to create one for your personal use, and write down Linux commands, their arguments and options, so your can successfully perform quizzes, midterm exam, and final exam.<br><br>
 +
# In order to exit the assignment #1 screen, enter <span style="color:blue;font-weight:bold">q</span><br><br>
 +
# Re-run the command that you did in step #1 and go to the '''main menu'''.<br>What do you notice?<br><br>If you successfully completed the first two sections, they no longer appear in reverse video.<br>This indicates that you have completed the first two sections of this assignment (i.e. you do NOT have to save your work!).<br><br>
 +
# Exit your Assignment 1, and exit your Matrix session.<br><br>
 +
# Proceed to the next section to perform additional practice. Linux is about "doing"! The more practice questions you perform,<br>the better mark you will achieve for this course and have a better foundation of issuing Linux commands to be more productive in your future courses.<br><br>
  
'''Answer Investigation 2 observations (all parts and questions) in your lab log book.'''
+
-->
  
= LAB 1 SIGN-OFF (SHOW INSTRUCTOR) =
+
= LINUX PRACTICE QUESTIONS =
[[Image:lab1_signoff.png|thumb|right|450px|Students should be prepared with '''all required commands (system information) displayed in a terminal (or multiple terminals) prior to calling the instructor for signoff'''.]]
 
  
 +
The purpose of this section is to obtain '''extra practice''' to help with '''quizzes''', your '''midterm''', and your '''final exam'''.
  
Shell scripting is <u>so essential</u> for Linux administration that this course has created a shell script for every lab for this course that a student must download and run in order to check their work.
+
Here is a link to the MS Word Document of ALL of the questions displayed below but with extra room to answer on the document to
 +
simulate a quiz:
  
If you have performed the lab correctly, then you will get a series of <b><code><span style="color:#66cc00;border:thin solid black;font-size:1.2em;">&nbsp;OK&nbsp;</span></code></b> messages and you can proceed with the SIGN-OFF for lab1. On the other hand, if there were errors, then a <b><code><span style="color:#ff0000;border:thin solid black;font-size:1.2em;">&nbsp;WARNING&nbsp;</span></code></b> message will appear with general suggestions that you will need to fix on your c7hostVM in order to have your OPS235 sign-off in this lab in order to proceed to the next lab.
+
https://github.com/ULI101/labs/raw/main/uli101_week1_practice.docx
  
:'''Perform the Following Steps:'''
+
Your instructor may take-up these questions during class. It is up to the student to attend classes in order to obtain the answers to the following questions. Your instructor will NOT provide these answers in any other form (eg. e-mail, etc).
  
# Make certain that your '''c7host''' VM is running, open the Bash Shell terminal and issue the command: <b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">su -</span></code></b> and enter root's password.<br><br>
 
# Change to the '''/root/bin''' directory.<br><br>
 
#Download the checking script by issuing the following Linux command:<br><b><code><span style="color:#3366CC;font-size:1.2em;">wget https://ict.senecacollege.ca/~ops235/labs/lab1-check.bash</span></code></b><br><br>
 
# Give that downloaded shell script file execute permissions (for the file owner).<br><br>'''FYI:''' Your checking script will not work unless you issued "'''su -'''" instead of just "'''su'''".<br><br>
 
# Run the shell script and if any warnings, make fixes and re-run shell script until you receive "congratulations" message.<br><br>
 
#Arrange evidence (command output) for each of these items on your screen, then ask your instructor to review them and sign off on the lab's completion:
 
  
::<span style="color:green;font-size:1.5em;">&#x2713;</span> Run the '''lab1-check.bash'''  script in front of your instructor (must have all <span style="color:#66cc00;border:thin solid black;font-size:1.2em;">&nbsp;OK&nbsp;</span> messages)
+
'''Review Questions:'''
::<span style="color:green;font-size:1.5em;">&#x2713;</span> Proof that c7host VM is set for '''virtualization''' (Refer to: '''INVESTIGATION 1''' - '''Part 1''' - '''Step #29''')
 
::<span style="color:green;font-size:1.5em;">&#x2713;</span> '''Lab1 logbook''' containing the values for:
 
:::* '''IP address''', '''MAC address''', '''Default route (gateway)''' and<br>'''DNS name server IP Address'''
 
  
= Practice For Quizzes, Tests, Midterm &amp; Final Exam =
+
# What is a “'''Linux Cluster'''”? What is an advantage of using a Linux cluster?
 +
# List '''three unique server names''' at Seneca college and briefly explain the purpose of that server.
 +
# List the steps to connect and login to your Matrix Seneca College account on your '''laptop''' or your '''home computer'''.
 +
# List alternative methods to connect to your Matrix account, including if you have an '''Apple Mac''' computer or are running the '''Linux''' operating system.
 +
# List 3 unique ways to '''log-out''' of your Matrix account (not including closing the SSH window or application).
 +
# What is the difference between a Linux '''command''' and an '''argument'''?
 +
# What is the purpose of a Linux command '''option'''?
 +
# What character(s) are used to '''separate''' commands and arguments?
 +
# Create a '''table''' listing each Linux command, useful options that were mentioned in this tutorial for the following Linux commands:<br>'''pwd''' , '''cd''' , '''ls''' , '''cal''' , '''date''' , '''who''' , '''w''' , '''whoami''' , '''who am I''' , '''clear'''
  
# Define the term Virtual Machine.
+
_________________________________________________________________________________
# List the major screens (steps) in the installation of Centos7 full install DVD.
 
# What key-combination is used to toggle the view of your running VM from "window-mode" to "full-screen-mode"?
 
# List the steps for disabling SELinux.
 
# List 2 ways that you can access your root account
 
# What is the difference between the commands '''su''' and '''su -'''  ?
 
# What is the home directory for the user "root"?
 
# How do you determine the host name of your GNU/Linux workstation?
 
# What command can display the NIC's MAC address?
 
# What command is used to get a list of running processes on your newly-installed system?
 
# Write the Linux command to download the on-line file: http://linux.server.org/package.tar.gz
 
# Write a Bash Shell Script to prompt the user for a directory, and then display the file types for all files in that specified directory (hint: use the '''read''' command and then use the '''file''' command and '''command substitution''' with the '''ls''' command). Test the Bash Shell script by adding execute permissions and run the Bash Shell Script.
 
# Modify the previously created shell script to perform error checking after prompting for a directory to test if the specified directory does not exist. If it does NOT exist (i.e. true), display an error message indicating that the directory does NOT exist, and issue the command exit 1 to terminate the Bash Shell Script. Test the Bash Shell script by adding execute permissions and run the Bash Shell Script.
 
  
 +
Author:  Murray Saul
  
 +
License: LGPL version 3
 +
Link:    https://www.gnu.org/licenses/lgpl.html
  
 +
_________________________________________________________________________________
  
  
[[Category:OPS235]]
+
[[Category:ULI101]]
[[Category:OPS235 Labs]]
 
[[Category:CentOS 7]]
 
[[Category:SSD2]]
 

Revision as of 06:50, 27 June 2022

USING YOUR MATRIX SERVER ACCOUNT


Main Objectives of this Practice Tutorial

  • Learn how to access your Matrix server account (from home and/or from Seneca computer lab).
  • Learn several ways to exit your Matrix Linux Account session.
  • Understand the Linux command structure and how to get help with Linux command usage.
  • Become efficient with Linux command line editing by using short-cut keys.
  • Issue a checking program (i.e. Shell Script) to confirm that you accessed your Matrix account.
  • Perform LINUX PRACTICE QUESTIONS for additional practice

Tutorial Reference Material

Course Notes / Software
Linux Command/Shortcut Reference
YouTube Videos
Slides:Tutorials:Windows SSH client Software: Matrix Account Access:

Command Line Editing:

General Linux Commands:


Brauer Instructional Videos:

KEY CONCEPTS

Purpose of Having a Matrix Linux Server Account

While attending Seneca College, you will be using many different computer systems. Some of these servers include:

my.senecacollege.ca Learning Content Management System (Link to Resources / Student Grades / Online Quizzes)
ict.senecacollege.ca Online access to slides, documents via webpage links
wiki.cdot.senecacollege.ca Student Notes / Tutorials (weekly, review) / Practice Questions / Resources
matrix.senecacollege.ca Linux Account for "hands-on Practice"


A shell is an interface / interpreter to allow a user to communicate with the Linux computer system.

Although you need to study concepts throughout this course (slides, etc.), you will also need to get hands-on practice running Linux commands as well as performing and submitting online tutorials.
This requires that you connect to a Linux server and become comfortable with issuing Linux commands.

In Unix/Linux, a shell is simply an interface to allow a user to communicate with the Linux computer system (server). Linux shells have evolved (improved) over a period of time. You will be using the Bash Shell which is considered to be user-friendly. By understanding how to issue Linux commands, you can create a file that contains Linux commands (called a shell script) later in this course to automate tasks to make you a more productive Linux user and system administrator.

Layout of the Matrix Linux Server

The Matrix server consists of several Computers connected together to form a cluster. A Linux Cluster is a cost effective alternative to larger servers.

The Matrix server consists of several computers connected together to form a cluster.
A Linux cluster is a cost effective alternative to buying larger servers.

All registered students in this course should have an account on the Matrix server.
You will be using this account for the following reasons:

  • Issuing Linux commands
  • Becoming productive using the Linux command prompt (shell)
  • Performing Linux Tutorials (11)
  • Performing Linux Practice Questions
  • Performing Review Tutorial Questions (2)

Connecting to the Seneca Student VPN

Seneca Student VPN

Seneca College is "rolling-out" additional measures to improve network security. One of these measures is to implement multi-factored authentication. As of September 2020, all Seneca College students are required to connect to the Seneca Student VPN in order to be able to connect to their Matrix Linux account.

Multi-factor authentication is an electronic authentication method in which a computer user is granted access to a website or application only after successfully presenting two or more pieces of evidence (or factors) to an authentication mechanism: knowledge (something the user and only the user knows). Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Multi-factor_authentication

You should have received an email message (also available in course announcements) regarding how to setup your Smart Phone to connect and valid via the Seneca Student VPN. NOTE: If you haven't done this yet, please perform the steps provided in the following link:
https://students.senecacollege.ca/spaces/186/it-services/wiki/view/1025/student-vpn

In the next investigation, you will learn how to connect to and login to your Matrix server account from a remote computer
such as your home desktop computer, laptop or tablet computer.

Connecting to Your Matrix Account

There are two basic methods to connecting to your Matrix account:

Connect to Matrix viassh command
Method 1: Run ssh Command from command prompt:
After connecting to the Seneca Student VPN, you can open a command terminal
in your Newer Windows 10, Mac or Linux computer and issue the following command:

ssh senecauserid@matrix.senecacollege.ca

Connect to Matrix via graphical SSH Program
Method 2: Run graphical ssh program via MyApps in Seneca computer lab:
If you are in a Seneca computer lab, you can use MyApps to run a graphical SSH application for your Windows machine. One advantage of using this method is that you are already at Seneca and are NOT required to connect to the student VPN.

NOTE: You instructor may show you how to run a graphic Linux VM in order to connect to your Matrix account (if interested, refer to the optional tutorial at the end of this semester).


INVESTIGATION 1: ACCESSING YOUR MATRIX LINUX ACCOUNT

ATTENTION: Effective May 9, 2022 - this online tutorial will be required to be completed by
Friday in week 2 by midnight to obtain a grade of 2% towards this course


In this section, you will learn how to access your Matrix Linux account by two different methods:

  • From your home computer
  • From a workstation in a Seneca College lab via MyApps


METHOD 1: CONNECTING TO YOUR MATRIX ACCOUNT FROM YOUR HOME COMPUTER

The Seneca Student VPN service must be connected.

You will now learn a quick and simple method of connecting to your Matrix account by opening
a text-based terminal (in any OS) and issuing the ssh command.

Perform the Following Steps:

  1. If you want to connect to your Matrix account from home, you MUST first connect to the Seneca Student VPN.
    Make certain that your Seneca Student VPN is connected.

    NOTE: If you haven't set this up, refer to the following link for instructions;
    https://students.senecacollege.ca/spaces/186/it-services/wiki/view/1025/student-vpn

    You only have to connect to your Seneca student VPN once during the day,
    or while you are logged into your computer.

  2. Determine which operating system that your computer is using.

  3. Try connecting to your Matrix account using the instructions in the table below based on your current operating system.

Newer Version of Windows 10: MacOSX: Linux:
  • From the start menu, type cmd and launch program
  • In the command terminal, enter the following command:
    ssh senecausername@matrix.senecacollege.ca
  • Click Launchpad icon, type terminal
    and press ENTER
  • In the terminal, enter the following command:
    ssh senecausername@matrix.senecacollege.ca
  • From the menu, choose:
    Applications > System Tools > Terminal
  • In the terminal, enter the following command:
    ssh senecausername@matrix.senecacollege.ca
  1. When connecting securely for the first time, a dialog box will appear to share a "public key" with your Matrix account in order to make your interaction between your workstation and the remote Linux server secure within the network (i.e. encrypted to prevent unauthorized access by other users)

    FYI: To make communications over a network secure, a computer generates two keys: a private key that is kept on the computer, and a public key, which can be shared with other computers. Transmissions from your computer uses the private key to encrypt (scramble) transmission to the remote computer, which in turn, uses the public key to decrypt (unscramble) the transmission. Likewise, the remote computer uses the public key to encrypt (scramble) transmissions and your computer uses the private key to decrypt (unscramble) those transmissions.

  2. Type yes and press ENTER to share your public key.

    Next, a dialog box will appear prompting you for your Matrix account password in order to gain entry to your Matrix account.
    Your Matrix password is identical to your Seneca password.

    NOTE: As you type the password, the text may be hidden to prevent others from viewing your password

  3. Enter your Seneca password and press ENTER

  4. NOTE: If you encounter an error message, this can occur for several reasons:
    1. You mis-spelled the name of the server
    2. You mis-spelled your Matrix username (same username that you connect to my.senecacollege.ca)
    3. You have CAPS LOCK on by mistake (your username should be lowercase only).
    4. You mis-spelled your password (same password that you connect to my.senecacollege.ca)

      If you continue to experience the same problems, click on the following link for IT service desk contact info:
      IT service desk.

  5. If you entered your password correctly, the Matrix Linux shell should appear where you can enter Linux commands.

    The Matrix server has been configured to allow users to only interact with the Linux OS by issuing commands.
    The main reason for this is to force students to learn how to issue Linux commands.

  6. To exit your Matrix session, type the command exit followed by ENTER

    NOTE: You should notice that you are returned to the original command prompt where you issued the ssh command.

  7. Type the same command at the command terminal prompt: exit followed by ENTER

    NOTE: You should notice that the you are disconnected and that the original terminal window has automatically closed.

  8. Try accessing your Matrix account, and then exiting your Matrix account several times to become familiar with this process.

    You will now learn an alternative method to access your Matrix account (if you have an MS Windows machine)
    by downloading and running a graphical SSH application.

METHOD 2: CONNECTING TO YOUR MATRIX ACCOUNT FROM SENECA COMPUTER LAB

NOTE: This section requires you have access to a Seneca computer lab on campus.
If you don't have access to a Seneca computer lab this semester, then you can skip this section


You can also connect to your Matrix server account in the Seneca Computer lab via MyApps.

One advantage of this method is that your are at the college; therefore, you do NOT have to worry about connecting to the Seneca VPN. Another advantage of using this method is to introduce you to a graphical program to allow you connect to your Matrix account as opposed to using the ssh command (shown in the previous section).

MyApps (AppsAnywhere) Main Window

This method would also be useful if you do not have a home (notebook) computer and have access to a Seneca computer lab workstation.

MyApps (AppsAnywhere) is an application streaming service that lets you install software on any Seneca PC on demand. Any software application on the MyApps menu can be used on computers in classrooms, labs, and the Computing Commons.

Reference: https://inside.senecacollege.ca/its/software/myapps/


You will now use MyApps on your Windows workstation in your Seneca lab room to launch an application
to allow you to connect and login to your Matrix server account.

Several SSH applications will appear. We will use the application called SSH Client for this practice tutorial.


Perform the Following Steps:

  1. Start your workstation in your lab and login to your Seneca Windows account.

  2. Make certain that the MyApps window is open. This window should have opened shortly after you logged into your Windows workstation. If the application windows is not open, click on the MyApps icon on the desktop to launch).

    SSH Client Application Window
    NOTE: You may be required to validate in order to use MyApps correctly. If you see near the top of the screen "requires validation", then click on that area to connect to validate.

  3. Click on the Search Apps area located in the top right corner of the MyApps window and type the word: ssh

  4. Several SSH applications will appear.

    NOTE: All of these applications allow you to connect to your Matrix account.
    We will use the application called SSH Secure Shell Client for this practice tutorial.

  5. Launch the SSH Secure Shell Client application icon to launch this program.

    Quick Connect Dialog Box
    NOTE: Prior to launching the application, you can add this to your favourites which will make it faster
    to access this application in the future.

  6. The main SSH Client window will appear. Click on the Quick Connect button.

    NOTE: The Connect dialog box allows the user to specify the server name and your account name
    to allow you to connect to the server.

  7. Click on the textbox labelled Hostnanme and enter the text: matrix

    NOTE: You can use the hostname matrix since you are located inside Seneca's network.
    If you where located outside Seneca's network, then you would need to enter the full domain name: matrix.senecac.on.ca

    Dialog Box to Share Public Key on Remote Server
  8. When connecting securely for the first time, a dialog box will appear to share a "public key" with your Matrix account in order to make your interaction between your workstation and the remote Linux server secure within the network (i.e. encrypted to prevent unauthorized access by other users)

    FYI: To make communications over a network secure, a computer generates two keys: a private key that is kept on the computer, and a public key, which can be shared with other computers. Transmissions from your computer uses the private key to encrypt (scramble) transmission to the remote computer, which in turn, uses the public key to decrypt (unscramble) the transmission. Likewise, the remote computer uses the public key to encrypt (scramble) transmissions and your computer uses the private key to decrypt (unscramble) those transmissions.

    Password Dialog Box
  9. Click the Yes button to share your public key.

  10. Next, a dialog box will appear prompting you for your Matrix account password in order to gain entry to your Matrix account. Your Matrix password is identical to your Seneca password. As you type the password, the text will be blocked-out or hidden to prevent others from viewing the screen to obtain your password
    Authentication Response Dialog Box


  11. Enter your password and click OK or press ENTER

    SSH Login Error
  12. Click OK or press ENTER at the Authentication Response dialog box.

    NOTE: If you encounter an error message, this can occur for several reasons:
    1. You mis-spelled the name of the server
    2. You mis-spelled your Matrix username (same username that you connect to my.senecacollege.ca)
    3. You have CAPS LOCK on by mistake (your username should be lowercase only).
    4. You mis-spelled your password (same password that you connect to my.senecacollege.ca)

    If you continue to experience the same problems, click on the following link for IT service desk contact info:
    IT service desk.

    Matrix Shell Command Line Interface
  13. If you entered your password correctly, the main SSH Linux shell should appear where you enter Linux commands.

    The Matrix server has been configured to allow users to only interact with the Linux OS by issuing commands. There are various reasons for this, but the main 2 reasons are to force students to learn how to issue Linux commands as well as limitations to remote access to a graphical Linux server due to large number of users (students).

    SSH Settings Dialog Box

You can configure the SSH application to adjust elements such as the window size and text font type and text font size. We will be showing you how to configure your SSH Secure Shell Client, but the other applications can allow you to configure their settings.

Perform the Following Steps:

  1. Click on the Edit menu item, and then select Settings in the Edit drop-down menu.

  2. To change the size of your shell window, under the Global Settings section, click Appearance

  3. Change the window size both horizontal and vertical to larger values.

  4. To change the font size, under the Global Settings section, click Font

  5. Select a larger font size and click OK

  6. You now should notice that you have customized your SSH shell terminal. You can use the settings screen to also change your background and text colours if you are interested in doing so.

  7. To exit your Matrix session, type the following command and press ENTER: exit

    NOTE: You should notice that the colour of the text changes slightly when disconnected and you are unable to issue Linux commands from that window.

  8. After you have disconnected from your account, close the SSH Secure Shell Client application window.

  9. It is recommended to repeat these steps with connecting to your Matrix account from a Seneca lab workstation until you become comfortable with the process.

In the next investigation, you will learn how to issue Linux commands from the command prompt (referred to as the "shell"), learn how to get help with Linux commands, use command-line editing short cut keys, and run a program to confirm that you connected to your Matrix account in order to get marks for this online tutorial.

INVESTIGATION 2: USING THE LINUX SHELL


In this investigation, you will learn how to use the Linux Shell. Topics in the section include:

  • Learn the basic Linux command structure (arguments and options)
  • Learn how to get help for Linux commands via the online manual (i.e. man command).
  • Perform Basic Shell Editing
  • Issue a program to confirm that you connected to your Matrix account

The Bash shell in Matrix allows you to interact with your Matrix account by issuing commands.

The General Linux Command Structure is as follows:
command argument1 argument2 ...

Some Linux commands can be issued by entering the Linux command line without arguments (e.g. pwd, date, ls, cal),
but many Linux commands can be issued with arguments (e.g. cal 2002, cd /bin, ls -l -a /bin ).

What Does an Argument Represent?

An argument can respresent:

  • a file pathname
  • a command option
  • a series of characters (i.e. text) that the command can use

An argument is separated from a command (or from other arguments) by a SPACE, MULTIPLE SPACES or a TAB.

Perform the Following Steps:

  1. Make certain that you are logged into your Matrix account.

  2. Issue the following Linux command: pwd

    The output from this Linux command basically shows your current location in the Matrix server.
    This represents a directory pathname to your home directory. We will discuss pathnames later in this course.

  3. Issue the following Linux command: ls

    What do you notice?

    If there were any files in your home directory, just their file names would be displayed.

  4. Issue the following Linux command: cd /bin

  5. Issue the following Linux command to confirm your current location: pwd

  6. Issue the following Linux command: ls

    What do you notice?

  7. Issue the following Linux command using an option: ls -l

    What do you notice?

    The -l option with the ls command provides a detailed ("long") listing of files providing more information on a separate line for each file.

  8. Issue the following Linux command to return to your home directory: cd

  9. Issue the following Linux command to confirm your current location: pwd

  10. Issue the following Linux command: ls /bin

  11. Issue the following Linux command to confirm your current location: pwd

    What do you notice?

    What makes this command with that argument useful if you are current located in your home directory?

  12. Issue a Linux command that you have already learned to change to your home directory
    and to confirm that you have returned to your home directory.

  13. Issue the following Linux command: clear

    What do you notice? How would this command be helpful?
    FYI: The short-cut keys to clear the screen for the Bash shell is: ctrl-l

  14. Issue the following Linux command: who

    What information does this command show?

    This command lists users that are logged into the same Matrix server as yourself.
    NOTE: Remember that the Matrix Linux cluster contains several servers, so it does not display
    all users that are logged onto those other machines within that cluster!

  15. Issue the following Linux command: whoami

    What does this command display? What do you think is the purpose of this command?

  16. Issue the following Linux command: cal

    What is the purpose of this command?

  17. Issue the following Linux command: cal 2021

    What is the purpose of this command using this argument?

  18. Issue the following Linux command: cal 2 2021

    What is the purpose of this command using those two numbers as arguments?

Getting Help with Linux Commands

With the Linux OS containing over 2500 commands and utilities, it is good for a Linux user or
Linux system administrator (sysadmin) to learn about how to use commands “on-the-fly”.

The man command can provide information on how to use a command
(i.e. command usage, acceptable command arguments, command options, examples).

  1. Issue the following command: man man

    You may notice that the online manual categories commands into sections or numbered volumes.

  2. Type the SPACE key to move to the next screen.

    How many volume numbers are contained in the man pages (like executable commands,
    games, or system administrator commands)?

    TIP: You can use the following short-cut keys within the man command to
    help navigate throughout this utility to get help with the ls command (refer to table below):

    Keyboard ShortcutPurpose
    ENTERMove down one line
    SPACEBARMove one screen down
    <ctrl><b>Move one screen up
    /pattern/Search for Pattern
    qquit man utility

  3. Press the letter q to exit the man command.

  4. Issue the following Linux command to get help with the ls command: man ls

  5. Navigate through the man utility for the ls Linux command and note the option letters that correspond to the following descriptions:
    • "use a long lising format"
    • "do not ignore entries starting with ." (i.e. hidden files)
    • "sort by file size"
    • "append indicator (one of */=>&|) to entries" (i.e. type of file)

  6. Exit the man utility for the ls command.

  7. Issue the ls command for each of those option letters you noted in step 5 to see how this command differs for each option.

    NOTE: The man utility can be used with the -k option to help list Linux commands that match a text pattern
    that is contained within the help screen for a Linux command.

  8. Pipeline commands can be used to filter-out unnecessary output. In the next command that you will be issuing,
    the output from the man -k command, is sent into the grep command to filter (i.e. trap) only output that matches the pattern "8"
    (The number "8" refers to the category of type of command - in this case, administration commands).

    We will learn more about pipeline commands later in this course.

  9. Issue the following Linux pipeline command: man -k user | grep 8

    How does this pipeline command make it easier to obtain information regarding man command?

  10. If you wish to change your password, you can change it by issuing the command: passwd
    What option for the passwd command can be used to change user info (such as name)?
    Hint: use the man command for passwd.

    NOTE: Do NOT run the passwd command. Unique for this college, your Matrix password
    is changed automatically when you change your myseneca password.


  11. Press the letter q to exit the man command.

    You will now learn how to perform command line editing
    to correct syntax errors while typing Linux commands PRIOR to pressing the ENTER key.

Command Line Editing

Command Line Editing Shortcut Keys.


Learning shortcut keys in any OS terminal will allow you to be more productive as a Linux user or Linux System Administrator (commonly referred to as: Linux sysadmin).


Let's learn a few common Bash Shell keyboard shortcut keys and find out where you can access online help for additional shortcuts (if required).


Perform the Following Steps:

To make alt-f key work, select Edit -> Settings -> Keyboard, and select the checkbox Use ALT as Meta key (and Escape).
  1. Type the following Linux command, but DON’T press the ENTER key:
    cd /bin

  2. Press the ctrl-a key combination. What happens?

    NOTE: To make alt-f key work when use the GRAPHICAL Windows SSH Client application, select Edit -> Settings -> Keyboard, and select the checkbox Use ALT as Meta key (and Escape).

  3. Press the alt-f key combination two times
    (OPTION+right-arrow for Mac OSx).

  4. Press the alt-b key combination one time.
    (OPTION+left-arrow for Mac OSx).

    alt-b moves one word backwards for Windows OS
    ctrl-w deletes a word to left of the cursor.
    After command is deleted, then type new command and press ctrl-e to move to end of the command line.
  5. Press the ctrl-w shortcut key. What happens?

  6. Type the following command: ls

  7. Press the ctrl-e key combination

    What happens?

  8. Press the ENTER key to execute the command.

  9. Press the up arrow key. What happens?

  10. Press the ctrl-u key combination. What happens?

  11. Press the up arrow key combination, and see what happens when you press BACKSPACE , <ctrl><BACKSPACE> and <ctrl><h>.
    Why is it important to know those series of key combinations?

  12. Press the ctrl-u key combination to clear the line.

  13. Press the ctrl-l key combination. What happens? What is the advantage of using ctrl-u as opposed to ctrl-l?

    The Bash shortcut keys that you just learned are sufficient to perform Bash Shell editing.
    Although you are NOT required to learn other short-cut keys, here is a link to a listing in case you are interested:
    [https:// ostechnix.com/list-useful-bash-keyboard-shortcuts/ Useful Bash Shell Keyboard Shortcuts]

Running a Shell Script to Check Student Online Tutorial Participation

Professors will require students successfully perform these online tutorials for marks (within a deadline).
In order to confirm that you successfully performed a tutorial, you will be required to run a program
(or in later tutorials, several programs) to prove that you successfully completed tasks in a tutorial and get marks.

These programs (known as Shell Scripts) will check your work and offer feedback if you made mistakes, so you can make corrections.
Making corrections (i.e. troubleshooting) and re-running these checking programs until you are successful will help students
gain "hands-on" experience as well as "trouble-shooting experience.


If all all check pass, then user performed can proceed.
If there is a warning, then feedback is provided to user to correct and re-run checking script.

If you have correctly completed the required tasks, the user can proceed. If the checking shell script detects an error, then it will provide feedback to allow the student to fix that problem so they can re-run the checking shell scripts until they have successfully completed a task.


Perform the Following Steps:

  1. Make certain that your current directory is your home directory
    By entering the following Linux command:
    cd

  2. Issue the following command to run a checking script :
    ~uli101/week1-check

    The beginning character "~" is called tilde. You get this character by pressing SHIFT + `
    (which is the key to the left of the number 1 on your keyboard).

  3. Your screen should clear and indicate that you have proved that you have successfully logged in.

  4. An email will be sent to your Seneca email as confirmation in case your ULI101 professor is assigning marks to these tutorials.

    Keep those confirmation email messages for the duration of this semester as proof that you have completed those checking scripts in case there is a discrepancy in tutorial grades.


LINUX PRACTICE QUESTIONS

The purpose of this section is to obtain extra practice to help with quizzes, your midterm, and your final exam.

Here is a link to the MS Word Document of ALL of the questions displayed below but with extra room to answer on the document to simulate a quiz:

https://github.com/ULI101/labs/raw/main/uli101_week1_practice.docx

Your instructor may take-up these questions during class. It is up to the student to attend classes in order to obtain the answers to the following questions. Your instructor will NOT provide these answers in any other form (eg. e-mail, etc).


Review Questions:

  1. What is a “Linux Cluster”? What is an advantage of using a Linux cluster?
  2. List three unique server names at Seneca college and briefly explain the purpose of that server.
  3. List the steps to connect and login to your Matrix Seneca College account on your laptop or your home computer.
  4. List alternative methods to connect to your Matrix account, including if you have an Apple Mac computer or are running the Linux operating system.
  5. List 3 unique ways to log-out of your Matrix account (not including closing the SSH window or application).
  6. What is the difference between a Linux command and an argument?
  7. What is the purpose of a Linux command option?
  8. What character(s) are used to separate commands and arguments?
  9. Create a table listing each Linux command, useful options that were mentioned in this tutorial for the following Linux commands:
    pwd , cd , ls , cal , date , who , w , whoami , who am I , clear

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Author: Murray Saul

License: LGPL version 3 Link: https://www.gnu.org/licenses/lgpl.html

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