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== Five Essential Linux Networking Commands ==
Here is a summary of five widely recognized and essential Linux networking commands used for troubleshooting, information gathering, and configuration.
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=== 1. <code>ip</code> (or <code>ifconfig</code>) ===
This command is used to '''display and manipulate network interface information'''. <code>ip</code> is the modern replacement for the older, but still common, <code>ifconfig</code>.

* '''Function:''' View IP addresses, network device status (e.g., active/inactive), and manage routing tables.
* '''Example Usage:''' <code>ip addr show</code> to display addresses, or <code>ifconfig</code> for a basic overview.

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=== 2. <code>ping</code> ===
<code>ping</code> is the fundamental tool for '''testing network connectivity''' between your system and a remote host.

* '''Function:''' Sends ICMP echo request packets to a target IP address or hostname and measures the time it takes for a reply (round-trip time).
* '''Usage:''' <code>ping google.com</code> or <code>ping 8.8.8.8</code>.

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=== 3. <code>ss</code> (or <code>netstat</code>) ===
The <code>ss</code> (Socket Statistics) command is used to '''display network connections and socket information'''. It is the improved replacement for the older <code>netstat</code>.

* '''Function:''' Shows listening ports, active network connections, routing tables, and interface statistics. This helps in identifying which services are running and open ports.
* '''Example Usage:''' <code>ss -tuln</code> (shows TCP/UDP connections and listening ports in numeric format).

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=== 4. <code>traceroute</code> ===
This diagnostic tool '''traces the path (hops) packets take''' from your system to a specified destination host.

* '''Function:''' Identifies all intermediate routers (hops) and measures the transit time to each, helping to locate where network delays or connectivity issues occur.
* '''Usage:''' <code>traceroute example.com</code>.

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=== 5. <code>dig</code> (or <code>nslookup</code> or <code>host</code>) ===
These commands are used for '''DNS (Domain Name System) lookups''' to query DNS servers.

* '''Function:''' Resolves hostnames to IP addresses, retrieves DNS record information (like A, MX, CNAME records), and helps troubleshoot name resolution issues.
* '''Example Usage:''' <code>dig example.com</code> (shows detailed DNS information).