Packt

Shell Scripting: Security, Portability & Debugging

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Packt

Shell Scripting: Security, Portability & Debugging

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Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Advanced level

Recommended experience

5 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Advanced level

Recommended experience

5 hours to complete
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Audit and secure shell scripts to meet professional security standards

  • Ensure script portability across multiple Unix-like shell environments

  • Debug scripts effectively and apply Z Shell techniques to complex tasks

Details to know

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Recently updated!

August 2026

Assessments

5 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the The Ultimate Linux Shell Scripting Guide Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 5 modules in this course

This module demonstrates how to leverage shell scripting to automate essential security tasks, such as auditing user accounts, scanning network ports, monitoring user activity, and configuring basic firewalls. Learners will adapt existing scripting knowledge to real-world security scenarios across different Unix-like systems.

What's included

1 video5 readings1 assignment

This module guides learners through the principles and practices of writing portable shell scripts, focusing on POSIX compliance, differences between common shells, and common pitfalls such as array handling and echo command inconsistencies. Learners will also explore tools like ShellCheck and checkbashisms to test and validate script compatibility across Unix and Linux environments. Practical labs and examples reinforce best practices for ensuring scripts run reliably on diverse systems.

What's included

1 video9 readings1 assignment

This module explores essential security practices for shell scripting, including managing permissions, handling sensitive data, and preventing vulnerabilities such as command injection. Learners will gain hands-on experience with ACLs, SUID/SGID settings, secure temporary file creation, and the safe use of commands like eval. Practical labs reinforce how to implement and test security measures across different Unix-like systems.

What's included

1 video13 readings1 assignment

This module guides learners through the process of diagnosing and fixing common errors in shell scripts. You will explore essential debugging tools like xtrace and bashdb, and learn best practices for managing variables and loop constructs to prevent and resolve scripting issues.

What's included

1 video6 readings1 assignment

This module introduces learners to Z Shell (zsh) scripting, highlighting its installation, unique features such as variable expansion, math operations, and array handling. Learners will compare zsh with Bash, explore directory expansion techniques, and discover useful zsh modules for automation tasks.

What's included

1 video5 readings1 assignment

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