Upgrade Your Command Line: Better Alternatives to Common Linux Commands

If you frequently work in a Linux terminal, you’re likely accustomed to using a set of commands for various tasks. While these commands can be reliable, there are often better, modern alternatives that enhance efficiency and ease of use. Below are some recommended command alternatives that you might want to consider incorporating into your workflow.

1. Switch ls With Eza

The ls command, a staple for listing files and directories, often outputs in plain text, which can be hard to read. Instead, try eza, a modern Rust-based replacement. Eza provides a more user-friendly interface, featuring file icons, a tree view, colorized output, and Git status indicators. This makes it easier to identify file types and see recent changes at a glance.

To install it on Ubuntu:

sudo apt install eza

You can also set up an alias to use eza automatically with ls.

2. cat With bat

While the cat command displays file contents, bat adds some flair with syntax highlighting, line numbers, and improved handling of non-printable characters. This enhances readability, especially for coding and configuration files.

To install bat on Ubuntu:

sudo apt install bat

Note that you may need to use batcat on Debian-based systems, but you can create an alias for convenience:

alias bat='batcat'

3. cp/scp With rsync

For copying files, cp and scp can feel limited, especially with large transfers. Consider using rsync instead. It efficiently syncs data between directories or machines, transferring only the changes when updating files. This is especially useful when working over unstable connections.

Install it via the package manager:

sudo apt install rsync

Basic usage looks like this:

rsync -av source/ destination/

4. find With fd

The find command is powerful but can be complex. fd is a simpler, modern alternative that’s faster and more intuitive. You can easily search for files with a pattern and receive quick results.

Install fd on Ubuntu:

sudo apt install fd-find

Example usage:

fdfind .js

5. cd With zoxide

The cd command can become cumbersome when navigating deep or frequently visited directories. zoxide is an intelligent alternative that learns your habits and lets you jump to directories with minimal input.

To install zoxide on Ubuntu:

sudo apt install zoxide

Make sure to integrate it into your shell by adding the initialization command to your ~/.bashrc:

eval "$(zoxide init bash)"

Final Thoughts

Embracing these modern command-line tools can greatly enhance your efficiency and user experience in Linux. While habitual usage of traditional commands is common, exploring these alternatives may lead you to discover new tools that better suit your workflow. Additionally, consider checking out various Linux fun commands and commands for new users as you expand your command-line skills.

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