Top 10 Ubuntu Commands Every Developer Should Know in 2025

Ubuntu remains a top choice for developers worldwide, thanks to its robust ecosystem, open-source flexibility, and powerful command-line interface (CLI). Whether you’re coding, managing servers, or optimizing workflows, mastering Ubuntu terminal commands is a game-changer. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 Ubuntu commands every developer should know to boost productivity, streamline tasks, and harness the full potential of this Linux distro. From file management to system monitoring, you’ll learn practical, essential Ubuntu commands with examples that you can start using today. Let’s dive into this Ubuntu CLI tutorial designed for developers like you!

Why Ubuntu Commands Matter for Developers

Developers rely on efficiency, and the Ubuntu terminal offers unparalleled control over your system. Unlike graphical interfaces, CLI commands save time, automate repetitive tasks, and provide deeper access to system resources. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned coder, these Ubuntu commands for developers will enhance your workflow and make you a terminal pro.

1. lsblk – List Block Devices

First on our list is lsblk, a command to display all block devices like hard drives and partitions. This is invaluable for developers working with storage or setting up development environments.

Example:

lsblk

This outputs a tree-like structure of your disks, mounts, and partitions. Pair it with lsblk -f to see filesystem types—perfect for debugging storage issues.

2. cd – Navigate Directories

The cd command is a fundamental part of any Ubuntu terminal commands toolkit. It lets you change directories quickly, essential for navigating project folders.

Example:

cd /var/www/html

Use cd .. to move up a directory or cd ~ to jump to your home directory. It’s simple but critical for file management.

3. mkdir – Create Directories

Need a new project folder? mkdir is your go-to command for creating directories in Ubuntu.

Example:

mkdir my_project

Add the -p flag (mkdir -p dir1/dir2) to create nested directories without errors. This is a must-know for organizing codebases efficiently.

4. rm – Remove Files and Directories

The rm command deletes files or directories, a powerful tool for cleaning up your system.

Example:

rm oldfile.txt

To remove a directory, use rm -r dir_name. Be cautious—there’s no recycle bin in the terminal!

5. cp – Copy Files and Directories

For duplicating files or folders, cp is one of the essential Ubuntu commands. It’s perfect for backing up scripts or sharing code snippets.

Example:

cp script.sh script_backup.sh

Use cp -r source_dir dest_dir to copy entire directories recursively.

6. mv – Move or Rename Files

The mv command handles both moving and renaming files, making it a versatile addition to your Ubuntu developer tools.

Example:

mv oldname.txt newname.txt

Or move it: mv file.txt /new/location/. It’s fast and efficient for project restructuring.

7. top – Monitor System Processes

Developers often need to monitor system performance, and top provides a real-time view of running processes, CPU, and memory usage.

Example:

top

Press q to exit. For a more modern alternative, try htop (install it with sudo apt install htop)—it’s user-friendly and visually appealing.

8. grep – Search Text in Files

The grep command is a developer’s best friend for searching through logs or code. It’s one of the most powerful Linux commands for developers.

Example:

grep "error" logfile.log

Add -i for case-insensitive searches or -r to search directories recursively. It’s a lifesaver for debugging.

9. chmod – Change File Permissions

Security matters, and chmod lets you modify file permissions to control who can read, write, or execute them.

Example:

chmod +x script.sh

This makes a script executable. Learn more about permissions in this DigitalOcean guide.

10. sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade – Keep Your System Fresh

Finally, keeping Ubuntu updated is crucial for security and performance. Combine sudo apt update and sudo apt upgrade to refresh package lists and install updates.

Example:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y

The -y flag auto-confirms upgrades, saving time. This is a staple in any Ubuntu productivity tips list.

Tips to Master These Ubuntu Commands

To truly excel, practice these commands in a virtual machine or a test environment. Combine them with aliases (e.g., alias up='sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade') for even faster workflows. Over time, these Ubuntu terminal commands will become second nature, transforming how you code and manage systems.

Conclusion

These top 10 Ubuntu commands every developer should know are your gateway to mastering the terminal. From navigating directories with cd to monitoring processes with top, each command enhances your control over Ubuntu. Start integrating them into your daily routine, and watch your productivity soar. Whether you’re building apps, managing servers, or debugging code, these essential Ubuntu commands are indispensable tools in your developer toolkit.

Want more? Check out our Ubuntu tutorials category for additional guides and tips!