Custom Shell

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Project Details

This custom “bash” shell is a Unix-like command-line interpreter developed in C programming language. Inspired by the classic Bash shell, this project aims to provide users with a robust and efficient command-line interface for interacting with the operating system. The shell supports a wide range of built-in commands, piping, input/output redirection, and job control functionalities, offering users a powerful tool for managing their system tasks and workflows.

Key Features
  • Command Execution: Allows users to execute various system commands and scripts directly from the shell, providing a familiar interface for interacting with the operating system.
  • Piping: Supports the chaining of multiple commands together using pipes “|“, enabling users to redirect the output of one command as the input to another.
  • Input/Output Redirection: Facilitates input and output redirection using “<” and “>” operators, allowing users to read from and write to files directly from the command line.
  • Job Control: Implements job control functionalities, enabling users to run commands in the background “&“, suspend and resume processes, and manage process groups effectively.
  • Scripting Support: Provides users with the ability to write shell scripts to automate tasks and workflows, enhancing productivity and efficiency in system administration tasks.
Technologies Used
  • IDE: CLion and VSCode
  • C Programming Language: Utilized C programming language to develop the shell, leveraging its low-level system access and efficiency in handling system calls and process management.
  • Unix System Calls: Leveraged various Unix system calls, such as fork, exec, pipe, dup2, and wait, to implement core functionalities of the shell, including process creation, execution, and management.
  • Command-Line Interface (CLI): Designed a user-friendly command-line interface, allowing users to interact with the shell using text-based commands and keyboard inputs.
  • File I/O Operations: Implemented file input/output operations to support input redirection “<” and output redirection “>“, enabling users to interact with files from the command line.
My Takeaways
  • Developed a deep understanding of systems programming concepts, including process management, file I/O operations, and signal handling, through the implementation of the custom Bash shell.
  • Explored principles of user interface design in the context of command-line interfaces, focusing on usability, efficiency, and user experience.
  • Addressed various technical challenges, such as handling edge cases, managing system resources efficiently, and ensuring robust error handling, to create a reliable and robust shell.
  • Engaged in collaborative development practices, including code reviews, testing, and iteration, to refine and enhance the functionality and performance of the shell.