Thursday, May 15, 2025

What is Unix Way?

The "Unix Way Website" is a collection of blogs focused on modern Unix-like systems that help me every day. 

Current blogs featured on the "Unix Way Website": 

VCDX200.uw.cz

VMware Way. The Ultimate Way to Virtualize.

FreeBSD.uw.cz 

FreeBSD Way. A True Unix Way. 

Linux.uw.cz

Linux Way. The most popular implementation of Unix Way. 

What does "Unix way" (or Unix philosophy) actually mean? 

In general is a set of design principles and practices that emerged from the development of the Unix operating system in the 1970s. These principles have influenced the design of many other operating systems and tools, especially in the open-source world.

Core Principles of the Unix Way

  1. Do one thing and do it well
    Each program should perform a single task effectively, rather than trying to be a multi-purpose tool.

  2. Work together
    Programs should be designed to work well with other programs. They use standard input/output (stdin/stdout) so they can be connected via pipes (|) in a shell to form powerful workflows.

  3. Handle text streams
    Text is the universal interface. Unix tools typically read and write plain text, making them flexible and composable.

  4. Small is beautiful
    Tools should be lightweight, simple, and minimal in design. Complexity is avoided in favor of simplicity and clarity.

  5. Use software leverage
    Instead of rewriting functionality, reuse existing tools by chaining them together.

  6. Build a prototype as soon as possible
    Get something working quickly, then improve it iteratively.

  7. Let the user choose
    Tools shouldn’t impose rigid behavior but should provide options and be scriptable.

  8. Keep it transparent and predictable
    Behavior should be obvious, with minimal side effects. Configuration and logs should be clear.

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What is Unix Way?

The " Unix Way Website" is a collection of blogs focused on modern Unix-like systems that help me every day.  Current blogs featu...