RHEL Linux - Red Hat System Administration Practice Exam

What is the default shell for most Linux distributions?

1. bash

2. sh

3. ksh

4. csh

The correct answer is: bash

The default shell for most Linux distributions is bash, which stands for "Bourne Again SHell." This shell is an enhanced version of the original Bourne shell (sh) and is included in most Linux installations due to its user-friendly features and compatibility. Bash provides a robust command-line interface with scripting capabilities, advanced tab completion, and command history, making it ideal for both interactive use and scripting. Bash is the default shell for many users because of its wide adoption and extensive documentation available, which makes it easier for users to learn and troubleshoot. As the preferred shell in many Linux and UNIX-like systems, it is favored for system administration, programming, and general use. While other shells like sh, ksh (Korn shell), and csh (C shell) are available and may be used in specific scenarios or by certain applications and scripts, they do not match the popularity and features that bash offers in most general environments. Bash's combination of modern features and backward compatibility with sh makes it the most practical choice, solidifying its position as the default shell in many distributions.