how do I run a script?

newbiesforever · 05-16-2006, 01:38 PM

If I have a multi-line script to run, how do I enter it at the command line--one line at a time, or all at once (by cutting and pasting)?

meng · 05-16-2006, 01:48 PM

Not sure I understand the question. The whole point of a script is to automate a multi-step task. Can you elaborate on why would you type a script into the command-line? Then it might be clearer how to answer your question.

newbiesforever · 05-16-2006, 02:47 PM

Someone gave me a script to detect my wireless network, but he didn't say what to do with it, so I would have typed it at the CL.

pixellany · 05-16-2006, 02:55 PM

A script goes into a file. To run it, set the execute permissions. In the CLI, type ./filename to run it (within its directory). From an arbitrary location, type the full path. From the GUI double-click.

A large percentage of Linux utilities are scripts. Open one with an editor to see how it is set up.

jschiwal · 05-16-2006, 02:56 PM

You could make the script executable and put it in your ~/bin/ directory. Then call the script by name.

meng · 05-16-2006, 02:57 PM

Ok. Well if you're only ever going to use it once in your life, then you could enter it one command at a time on the CLI. An alternative is to enter several commands separated by &&, i.e.
<commandthefirst> && <commandthesecond> && ...

But if you think you might need to use it again in future, then you should definitely save the text as a file (usually with a .sh extension), then chmod +x <nameoffile>, then ./<nameoffile> to run the script.