The command line, or terminal, is a black or white window that waits for you to type. Each command does one job: creating a folder, copying a file, installing a program, connecting to a server or running a script.

Why is it still used?#

  • Speed: a few commands can do what would take dozens of clicks.
  • Automation: commands can be saved in a script file and run again.
  • Remote work: servers usually have no graphical environment, only a command line.
  • Precision: commands can be recorded, repeated and shared.

A few examples#

  • On Linux and Mac: show the current folder, copy a file, search text.
  • On Windows: Command Prompt and PowerShell.
  • Tools such as Git and package installers usually work through the command line.

Where will you meet it?#

When you connect to a server or host over SSH, install WordPress with a command-line tool or manage code with Git.

A safety note#

Do not run a command you copied from the internet without understanding it, especially if it includes deletion (rm) or running a downloaded file. It is like a switch where one mistake erases all your data.