zsh: Advanced Shell with Robust Features

For Linux enthusiasts and power users, the choice of a shell can greatly enhance the terminal experience. While Bash is the default shell on many Linux distributions, zsh (Z Shell) provides a wealth of features helpful for interactive use and scripting. In this blog, we'll explore what makes zsh a compelling option and how to install it across various Linux distributions.

What is zsh?

zsh is a Unix shell that is built on the same architecture as Bash. It includes advanced features such as superior scriptability, improved tab completion, and customizable appearances. zsh combines the best aspects of other shells like bash and ksh, adding its own enhancements. Here are some highlights:

• Auto-suggestions & Tab Completion: zsh can suggest commands as you type, based on command history. It also provides more powerful tab completions.

• Spell Check and Corrections: Mis-typed commands can be automatically corrected.

• Theme and Plugin Support: Customise your shell's look and add functionality with themes and plugins via frameworks like Oh My Zsh.

• Programmable Command Line: Extensively programmable with improved scripting capabilities.

Getting zsh Installed

Debian/Ubuntu (apt)

Debian-based distributions such as Ubuntu can install zsh using apt. First, make sure your package list is updated:

sudo apt update

Then, install zsh:

sudo apt install zsh

Fedora (dnf)

For Fedora and other distributions using dnf:

sudo dnf install zsh

openSUSE (zypper)

openSUSE and its derivatives use zypper as the package manager. To install zsh:

sudo zypper install zsh

Arch Linux (pacman)

For Arch Linux users:

sudo pacman -S zsh

Post Installation: Making zsh the Default

After installing, you may want to make zsh your default shell. You can do this with the chsh command:

chsh -s $(which zsh)

This changes your default shell to zsh. Restart your terminal or log out and back in to apply the change.

Enhancing zsh with Oh My Zsh

One of the powerful aspects of zsh is its ability to leverage frameworks like Oh My Zsh, which provides a plethora of themes, plugins, and features. To install Oh My Zsh:

sh -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/OhMyZsh/OhMyZsh/master/tools/install.sh)"

With Oh My Zsh, you can customise your shell experience extensively, making it an even more robust tool for your development and daily operations.

Conclusion

If you're a Linux user who spends a significant amount of time in the terminal, embracing zsh can be a game-changer. With its advanced features and the additional functionalities provided by frameworks like Oh My Zsh, you can boost your productivity and streamline your command-line workflows.

Go ahead and give zsh a try. With easy installation across different Linux distributions, advanced features right out of the box, and extensive customization options, it's clear why zsh is a beloved choice for many power users around the world. Happy coding!