Tools to use for task automation

The tools for task automation can be single Unix commands, such as find and du, but most often a programming or shell scripting language is used. Shell scripting with the Bourne shell or the C shell is probably the most prevalent as these tools are provided as part of the standard Unix environment. Another useful tool is PERL, as it has many additional programming features that allow scripts to be simple. Also the C programming language, or any other, can be utilized to provide automation tools.

Shell Scripting and programming

There are many complete guides to shell programming available via the web and in book form. It is essential that system administrators master at least one type of shell scripting language.

Here is a list of optional online references:

Bourne Shell

C shell

A Brief Introduction to C-Shell Programming

Perl

C

Here are some optional online references to books about programming.

Terms used: programming, programming language, C.