Run Multiple Terminal Commands Simultaneously in Linux

Leveraging Command Chaining in Linux

For those familiar with the Linux operating system, the command line interface is an invaluable tool. It facilitates file management, software installation, and program execution.

However, its efficiency can be significantly enhanced by executing multiple commands sequentially.

Understanding Command Chaining

The practice of combining two or more commands on a single line is commonly referred to as "command chaining". This technique streamlines workflows and reduces repetitive typing.

Several methods exist for effectively chaining commands within the Linux terminal.

Benefits of Utilizing Command Chaining

Command chaining offers a number of advantages for Linux users. It allows for the automation of complex tasks and improves overall productivity.

By consolidating multiple operations into a single line, users can minimize the time spent interacting with the command line.

Command chaining is a powerful feature for both novice and experienced Linux users.

Related: 10 Basic Linux Commands for Beginners

Utilizing the Semicolon (;) Operator

The semicolon (;) serves as an operator enabling the sequential execution of multiple commands. This functionality operates irrespective of the success or failure of any preceding command. To illustrate, initiate a Terminal window using the shortcut Ctrl+Alt+T on Ubuntu or Linux Mint.

Subsequently, input the following three commands onto a single line, demarcated by semicolons, and then press Enter. This action will simultaneously provide a directory listing, reveal your current working directory, and display your user login name.

ls ; pwd ; whoami

The inclusion of spaces surrounding the semicolons and commands is optional. The commands can alternatively be entered as ls;pwd;whoami. However, incorporating spaces enhances readability, particularly when integrating the combined command into a shell script.

Benefits of Using Semicolons

• Sequential Execution: Commands are processed one after another.
• Efficiency: Multiple tasks can be completed with a single command entry.
• Scripting: Facilitates concise shell scripting.

The semicolon operator is a powerful tool for streamlining command-line operations. It allows for the efficient execution of a series of commands without requiring separate Enter presses for each one.

This method proves particularly valuable when automating tasks or when a sequence of commands needs to be run consistently. Understanding its application can significantly improve your workflow within the Linux terminal.

Utilizing the Logical AND Operator (&&)

To execute a second command only upon the successful completion of the first, employ the logical AND operator. This is represented by two ampersands (&&). Consider the scenario where you need to create a directory named MyFolder and subsequently navigate into it, but only if the directory creation is successful.

The following command, entered on the command line and followed by pressing Enter, achieves this.

mkdir MyFolder && cd MyFolder

Because the folder was created without error, the cd command was then carried out, placing you within the newly created directory.

Generally, we advise using the logical AND operator over the semicolon operator (;). This practice helps prevent potentially damaging actions. For instance, attempting to change directories and then recursively delete all contents (cd /some_directory ; rm -Rf *) could be catastrophic if the directory change fails.

It is important to note that unconditionally removing all files within a directory is not a recommended practice.