ABSTRACT
This chapter explores some of the very basics of operating a Linux OS. Linux is really good for ethical hacking and penetration testing because it is compatible with a wide variety of related tools and software, whereas other operating systems such as Mac and Windows support fewer of these software and tools. Before talking about BackTrack, let's take a look at some of the Linux-based distros that one will encounter very often: Redhat Linux, Debian Linux, Ubuntu Linux, Mac OS X, Solaris, and BackTrack Linux. There are certain exceptions in a Linux file system: Directories, Special file, Links, Sockets, and Pipes. The users inside of Linux are stored inside the /etc/passwd file. Group Permission for Linux is: owner, group, and all users/other. The Owner permissions apply only the owner of the file or directory; they will not impact the actions of other users.
