
Fortunately times and Linux have changed. Of course, at the time, most everyone trying their hand at Linux knew they were getting into something that would require some work. For some new users this left their machines outdated or without applications they needed. In fact, if you wanted to tackle either task you were bound for the command line.

Many years ago, when I first began with Linux, installing applications and keeping a system up to date was not an easy feat.

For more great SysAdmin tips and techniques check out our free intro to Linux course. This is a classic article written by Jack Wallen from the archives.
