Linux and UNIX users know the shell as the interactive command interpreter. But did you know that the shell is also a real programming language? An experienced shell programmer can write his own commands, and use them to automate a number of frequently recurring tasks.

This course therefore discusses the programming syntax of the shell (in particular of the Bourne shell, and of bash, ksh and zsh). Furthermore, the use of awk and sed is also discussed in detail.

After completion, participants will be able

• to write relatively complex shell scripts themselves,
• understand existing scripts,
• adapt scripts to their needs.

• Basic shell scripting: a recap
• Working towards batch procedures:
  Manipulating text in batch (sed, tr, ...) • unix tools in batch (arithmetic, text manipulation, "here documents", ...) • process synchronisation (wait, trap, exit, return, ...) • functions (definition, function library, function availability)

• Advanced Shell programming - based on the Korn shell, on bash (Linux), and on zsh (macOS):
  Writing logical tests • evaluating tests • branching • iterations • arithmetic expressions • interactive scripting

• AWK programming
  AWK program structure • verbs • arguments • syntax of an instruction • conditions based on file parsing • regular expressions • search and update of file databases • simple reports

Classroom instruction based on a handout, presentation and demo's.

A substantial amount of time is spent on individual practice (exercises) and practical use cases.

Delivered as a live, interactive training – available in-person or online, or in a hybrid format. Training can be implemented in English, Dutch, or French.

The participant has followed the Linux / UNIX fundamentals course or has equivalent experience with the system, and has basic knowledge of a programming language.

Power-users and system administrators of Linux or UNIX who are responsible for the organisation and the management of an efficient UNIX or Linux environment based on intelligent procedures, or who want to automate their daily routine activities.