Software
Debian Linux
We'll be using Debian Linux as the operating system for the node we're building. Debian is one of the oldest free, open-source Linux distributions. The Debian website itself best explains why we should be using Debian. The link can be found here.
The Filesystem Hierarchy Standard (FHS)
The Filesystem Hierarchy Standard (FHS) defines the purpose and organisation of the major directories on a Linux system. By following a common directory structure, Linux distributions provide consistent locations for configuration files, installed software, application data, log files, and other system resources. This makes systems easier to administer and allows software to be installed in predictable locations.
The FHS is based on the hierarchical directory structure that originated with the Unix operating system in the early 1970s. Today, the same general layout is used by Linux and remains recognisable on other Unix-like operating systems, including the BSD family and macOS.
Directories used in this workshop
| Directory | Purpose |
|---|---|
/etc |
System-wide configuration files, such as bitcoin.conf and other application configuration files. |
/etc/systemd/system |
Systemd service files that define how services are started and managed. |
/usr/local/src |
Source code downloaded or cloned to build software from source. |
/usr/local/lib |
Locally installed applications and supporting files. |
/usr/local/bin |
Executable programs and symbolic links to the installed software. |
/var/lib |
Persistent application data, such as the Bitcoin blockchain, indexes, and Lightning data. |
/var/log |
Log files generated by applications and services. |
/home |
Home directories for regular users. |
/root |
Home directory of the root user. |
Understanding where files belong makes it easier to install, configure, and troubleshoot software. Throughout this workshop, we'll follow the FHS wherever practical so that the system remains organised and behaves as Linux administrators would expect.
Editors
We'll be using the nano command line editor to edit files in this workshop. There are many online resources on how to use it.
Command Line Shortcuts
The Linux command line provides several shortcuts that can save time and reduce typing.
- Up Arrow – Recall the previous command. Press repeatedly to step backwards through your command history.
- Down Arrow – Move forwards through your command history after using the Up Arrow.
- Tab – Automatically complete file and directory names. Type the first few characters of a name and press Tab. If there is only one match, the shell will complete the name. If there are multiple matches, press Tab twice to display the available options.
Using these shortcuts makes working at the command line faster and helps avoid typing mistakes.