Automate Scripts in Ubuntu Linux
Linux is everywhere and sits at the heart of cloud computing, making it hard to avoid. Working through this lab, you will learn the skills needed to effectively automate laborious tasks by creating shell scripts. In doing so, not only are you saving time, but you will be documenting the process by means of the script, so nothing is forgotten. This is an essential part of any compliance program you are tested against. The lab will step you through using a script to create user accounts, which will use if statements, while loops, and for loops.
Terms and conditions apply.
Challenge
Getting Started in the Lab Environment
Here are the initial instructions and explanation of the lab environment. Read this while your environment is busy creating itself from nothing. Yes, this violates physics; we know. Have fun!
Challenge
Understand Shell Scripts
In this challenge you will become familiar with keywords used in shell scripting, and how to locate help on syntax elements.
Challenge
Create a Script to Add a Linux User
The ultimate goal is to create a shell script that creates a user and sets the password. This will be built step by step: initially your will solely create the user. By the end of the challenge, the username can be passed as an argument or via a prompt.
Challenge
Check the User is Unique
Whilst your script is OK, it is not perfect. One issue is that it really needs to check that the user account is not already present before calling useradd. In this challenge you will add a simple check.
Challenge
Allow Multiple Arguments
But what if the you want to create many user accounts? Currently your script only handles the first argument, and nothing more. All other arguments are silently ignored. You will now adjust the script to read an array of arguments. A for loop will be used to iterate though each supplied argument.
Challenge
The Last Challenge
Welcome to the final challenge! This is your last chance to experiment in the environment. Clicking Finish Lab will end this little world that flittered into existence just for you.
Provided environment for hands-on practice
We will provide the credentials and environment necessary for you to practice right within your browser.
Guided walkthrough
Follow along with the author’s guided walkthrough and build something new in your provided environment!
Did you know?
On average, you retain 75% more of your learning if you get time for practice.
Recommended prerequisites
- This lab gets you started with the command line scripting essentials of Ubuntu Linux, and few prerequisite skills in Linux are needed.
- Using a command line text editor such as vi/vim or nano is required
- High-level familiarity with the coding concepts of if statements, for loops, and while loops