Ubuntu vs Command Line vs PowerShell vs Git Bash vs NPM vs PNPM: A Beginner's Guide
"A Beginner's Guide to Understanding Key Tech Tools: Ubuntu, CLI, PowerShell, Git Bash, NPM & PNPM Explained Simply!"
Introduction
If you are new to the world of programming, you may have come across terms like Ubuntu, Command Line, PowerShell, Git Bash, NPM, and PNPM. At first, they might sound confusing, but don’t worry! This blog will break down these concepts in the simplest way possible.
By the end of this guide, you'll understand what each of these tools is, why they exist, and when you should use them. Let’s dive in! 🚀
1. What is Ubuntu? 🐧
🔹 Definition
Ubuntu is an operating system (OS) based on Linux. Just like Windows and macOS, it helps you interact with your computer.
🔹 Key Features
Free and Open-Source – Anyone can use and modify it.
Lightweight & Secure – Less prone to viruses than Windows.
Used for Development & Servers – Preferred by programmers and IT professionals.
🔹 How is it Different?
Unlike Windows, which has a Graphical User Interface (GUI), Ubuntu is often used via a Command Line Interface (CLI) (a text-based interface where you type commands).
👉 When to Use It?
- If you want to learn Linux or work in tech fields like programming, cybersecurity, or server management.
2. What is a Command Line (CLI)? 💻
🔹 Definition
A Command Line Interface (CLI) is a way to interact with your computer by typing commands instead of clicking buttons.
🔹 Examples
Command Prompt (cmd.exe) – Windows’ default CLI.
Terminal – The CLI used in Ubuntu/Linux/macOS.
PowerShell – A powerful CLI for Windows.
🔹 Why Use It?
Faster than GUI for many tasks.
Essential for programming, automation, and troubleshooting.
Gives more control over the system.
👉 When to Use It?
- When you need to execute commands quickly, automate tasks, or work with programming.
3. What is PowerShell? ⚡
🔹 Definition
PowerShell is a command-line tool and scripting language made by Microsoft for Windows.
🔹 Key Features
More powerful than the standard Command Prompt.
Uses cmdlets (special functions) to manage system settings.
Works well with Windows administration tasks.
🔹 How is it Different?
PowerShell is built for automation and system management.
Command Prompt (cmd) is basic and limited in features.
👉 When to Use It?
- If you are managing Windows systems or automating tasks in Windows.
4. What is Git Bash? 🛠️
🔹 Definition
Git Bash is a command-line tool that provides a Linux-like terminal on Windows.
🔹 Key Features
Lets Windows users run Linux commands.
Comes with Git, a tool used for version control.
Helps developers work with repositories (like GitHub).
🔹 How is it Different?
- Unlike PowerShell, which is Windows-focused, Git Bash is designed for Git users who prefer Linux commands.
👉 When to Use It?
- If you're working with Git and need a Unix-style terminal on Windows.
5. What is NPM (Node Package Manager)? 📦
🔹 Definition
NPM is a package manager for JavaScript that helps developers install and manage code libraries (called packages or dependencies).
🔹 Key Features
Installs JavaScript libraries easily.
Manages project dependencies.
Runs scripts (
npm start,npm test, etc.).
🔹 How is it Different?
- NPM is for JavaScript, while Git Bash, PowerShell, and Ubuntu are general-purpose tools.
👉 When to Use It?
- If you are working on a JavaScript/Node.js project.
6. What is PNPM (Performant NPM)? ⚡🚀
🔹 Definition
PNPM is a faster and more efficient alternative to NPM.
🔹 Key Features
Uses symlinks to save space.
Faster than NPM because it avoids redundant downloads.
Works similarly to NPM but is optimized.
🔹 How is it Different?
NPM installs full copies of dependencies.
PNPM creates links to save space and speed up installation.
👉 When to Use It?
- If you want a faster and more efficient package manager for JavaScript projects.
Conclusion: When to Use What? 🤔
| Tool | Category | Main Purpose |
| Ubuntu | Operating System | Linux-based system for development |
| Command Line (CLI) | Interface | Running text-based commands |
| PowerShell | CLI & Scripting | Windows automation & management |
| Git Bash | CLI | Linux-style terminal for Windows (with Git) |
| NPM | Package Manager | Manages JavaScript dependencies |
| PNPM | Package Manager | A faster alternative to NPM |
Final Thoughts
If you're a beginner: ✅ Start with Ubuntu if you want to learn Linux.
✅ Use the Command Line (CLI) for more control over your system.
✅ Learn PowerShell if you use Windows a lot.
✅ Use Git Bash for Git and Linux-like commands on Windows.
✅ Work with NPM or PNPM if you're doing JavaScript development.
Now you have a solid understanding of these tools! 🚀 Which one are you excited to try first? Let me know in the comments! 👇😊