Top Linux books curated by experts

At MentorCruise, we are all about making the most out of the experience of others. As part of that, we have connected and asked dozens of experts and professionals about their favouriteLinux books – and here are the answers.

  • Curated by industry experts
  • Proven learning resources
  • Updated annually
Top Linux books recommended by experts
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Fundamentals of Linux

Understanding the concepts of Linux starts with understanding the fundamentals. On your way to mastery, it's crucial for you to understand how certain concepts were derived, and why things work like they do. Starting with these resources is the best way to do so.

Linux in a Nutshell: A Desktop Quick Reference

Linux in a Nutshell: A Desktop Quick Reference

This updated edition offers a tighter focus on Linux system essentials, as well as more coverage of new capabilities such as virtualization, wireless network management, and revision control with git. It also highlights the most important options for using the vast number of Linux commands.

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

Linux Basics for Hackers: Getting Started with Networking, Scripting, and Security in Kali

Linux Basics for Hackers: Getting Started with Networking, Scripting, and Security in Kali

This practical, tutorial-style book uses the Kali Linux distribution to teach Linux basics with a focus on how hackers would use them. Topics include Linux command line basics, filesystems, networking, BASH basics, package management, logging, and the Linux kernel and drivers.

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

How Linux Works: What Every Superuser Should Know

How Linux Works: What Every Superuser Should Know

Unlike some operating systems, Linux doesn't try to hide the important bits from you—it gives you full control of your computer. But to truly master Linux, you need to understand its internals, like how the system boots, how networking works, and what the kernel actually does.

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition: A Complete Introduction

The Linux Command Line, 2nd Edition: A Complete Introduction

The Linux Command Line takes you from your very first terminal keystrokes to writing full programs in Bash, the most popular Linux shell (or command line). Along the way you'll learn the timeless skills handed down by generations of experienced, mouse-shunning gurus: file navigation, environment…

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

Linux Essentials

Linux Essentials

Linux Essentials, 2nd Edition provides a solid foundation of knowledge for anyone considering a career in information technology, for anyone new to the Linux operating system, and for anyone who is preparing to sit for the Linux Essentials Exam. Through this engaging resource, you can access key…

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

Linux in a Nutshell

Linux in a Nutshell

Linux in a Nutshell covers the core commands available on common Linux distributions. This isn't a scaled-down quick reference of common commands, but a complete reference to all user, programming, administration, and networking commands with complete lists of options.

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

Additional Linux Reading

These books are not required for you to learn Linux, but they are highly recommended for you to deepen your knowledge.

Linux Command Line and Shell Scripting Bible

Linux Command Line and Shell Scripting Bible

Linux Command Line and Shell Scripting Bible, 4th Edition is the newest installment in the indispensable series known to Linux developers all over the world. Packed with concrete strategies and practical tips, the latest edition includes brand-new content covering: Understanding the Shell Writin…

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

Linux System Programming: Talking Directly to the Kernel and C Library

Linux System Programming: Talking Directly to the Kernel and C Library

Write software that draws directly on services offered by the Linux kernel and core system libraries. With this comprehensive book, Linux kernel contributor Robert Love provides you with a tutorial on Linux system programming, a reference manual on Linux system calls, and an insider’s guide to w…

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

The Linux Command Line: A Complete Introduction

The Linux Command Line: A Complete Introduction

You've experienced the shiny, point-and-click surface of your Linux computer—now dive below and explore its depths with the power of the command line. The Linux Command Line takes you from your very first terminal keystrokes to writing full programs in Bash, the most popular Linux shell. Along t…

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

Command Line Kung Fu

Command Line Kung Fu

Command Line Kung Fu is packed with dozens of tips and over 100 practical real-world examples. You won't find theoretical examples in this book. The examples demonstrate how to solve actual problems and accomplish worthwhile goals. The tactics are easy to find, too.

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

Shell Scripting: How to Automate Command Line Tasks Using Bash Scripting and Shell Programming

Shell Scripting: How to Automate Command Line Tasks Using Bash Scripting and Shell Programming

If you want to learn how to write shell scripts like a pro, solve real-world problems, or automate repetitive and complex tasks, read on.
Hello. My name is Jason Cannon and I'm the author of Linux for Beginners, Python Programming for Beginners, and an instructor to thousands of satisfied stu…

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

Linux administration

Linux administration

Fully updated for the most current Linux distributions, Linux Administration: A Beginner's Guide, Fifth Edition, shows you how to set up, maintain, and troubleshoot Linux on a single server or an entire network. Get full details on granting user rights and permissions, configuring software and h…

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

Specializations and Deeper Linux Knowledge

You've got your basics in order – time to move on to some advanced and specialized concepts. Linux is evolving every day, these books can help you master it.

The Debian Administrator's Handbook: Debian Jessie From Discovery To Mastery

The Debian Administrator's Handbook: Debian Jessie From Discovery To Mastery

Accessible to all, this book teaches the essentials to anyone who wants to become an effective and independent Debian GNU/Linux administrator. It covers all the topics that a competent Linux administrator should master, from the installation and the update of the system, up to the creation of pa…

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

Kali Linux for Beginners; A step-by-step Guide to Ethical Hacking: Mastering Cybersecurity with Hands-On Exercises

Kali Linux for Beginners; A step-by-step Guide to Ethical Hacking: Mastering Cybersecurity with Hands-On Exercises

Are you fascinated by the world of cybersecurity? Do you want to learn the same tools used by hackers and penetration testers—but without feeling overwhelmed by technical jargon? Kali Linux for Beginners offers an accessible way to step into the realm of ethical hacking, even if you have zero pr…

Recommended by the experts and mentors at MentorCruise.

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