Just one thing, you dont know an awful lot about Linux to get you started.
Free, you ask?
you could then use the guide to familiarize yourself with the Linux desktop and some basic commands.
Stefan did a great job in keeping it simple and to the point, the way beginners want it.
Also dont forget to check out our other MakeUseOf Manuals.
Introduction to Linux – A Hands on Guide
Takes you from the absolute basics to basics.
The guide explains Linux file structure and introduces to basic commands and text editors as well.
This book shows you how to use the command line in Linux to your advantage.
There are chapters that deal with specific tasks and list various commands you could use to achieve the task.
The guide takes you from installing and configuring Ubuntu to adding and managing software and securing your system.
A must read book if you use Ubuntu.
Rute Users Tutorial and Exposition
This one is not for the faint hearted!
There is enough Linux juice in this book to keep even the intermediate to advanced users interested.
While a pretty technical read,User Mode Linuxmanages to remain readable and engaging.
Notably, the “What is UML” section features a superb, easy to understand breakdown of UML.
Great diagrams peppered throughout show concepts visually, like a picture of UML as a kernel and process.
There’s even an output of UML on first boot.
Linux Succinctly
Are you new to Linux?
Then download Jason Cannon’s 94 page ebookLinux Succinctly.
Offering stellar overview of Linux, Cannon begins with the basics: what is Linux?
His free eBook proceeds to cover distributions, and then branches into the main components.
Namely,Linux Succinctlycovers directories, the command line, directory structure, permissions, and more.
There’s a very logical structure that starts with basic concepts and provides specific examples.
However these refrain from becoming overwhelming.
For instance, there’s a snippet of the average command line with a line by line breakdown.
Overall,Linux Succinctlysummarizes the Linux ecosystem comprehensively, effectively, and in less than 100 pages.
It’s an excellent read for beginners and intermediate users.
Java software Development on Linux
Java stands as one of the most popular programming languages.
Thus, it’s really no surprise thatJava tool Development on Linuxclocks in at a whopping 599 pages.
If you have a question on Java development on Linux, chances are this is the book for you.
Later on, the book looks at using Linux features to create Java SDKs.
One of the best sections is Part II on business logic.
This reviews such tactics as developing software, what makesgoodsoftware, and budget applications.
Linux web connection Administrator’s Guide
O’Reilly makes some fabulous books.
System administrators usually adore Linux, whether by choice or Stockholm Syndrome.
So it’s fitting that there’s an O’Reilly book covering this vast expanse.
This free eBook starts at the beginning with, you guessed it, networking.
It’s a hefty 506 pages which allots plenty of technical detail.
Linux Shell Scripting Cookbook
Linux boasts the uber-powerful command line.
Shell scripting is a main draw of adopting the Linux ecosystem.Linux Shell Scripting Cookbookdives into shell.
This excellent free eBook begins with the basics such as understanding Bash conceptually.
Plus,Linux Shell Scripting Cookbookmay feature the best chapter titles of any book on this list.
A winning combo indeed.
There’s even a dedicated section for administrators that system admins will appreciate.
Free for All
While most Linux ebooks are pretty technical,Free for Alltakes a different approach.
History buffs will likely appreciate Wayner’s riveting read.
But don’t worry,Free for Allis far from watered down.
Rather, it’s replete with chapters discussing the likes of WINE, and even memoirs of software development.
Bonus points for being free.
Image Credit: Peter Bernik via Shutterstock.com