Shell script inception in the world of programming has come with a number of benefits though it has to be acknowledged that no particular language fulfills all purposes regarding programming languages. The first of its many uses is its application in system administration. In the case where one intends to rename for example seven hundred files in the same directory though based upon a different file, with shell scripting it can be achieved with just three lines. Burkch (2004, p. 20-21) observes that without alteration of the original order it can filter a list to display only unique values unlike number of other solutions that demand that one initially sorts out the list, resulting to the original order being compromised (p.21).
It is not quite challenging to grasp script crafting, for scripts can be created into sections that are bite-sized and the set of shell-specific options and operations to become skilled at just a handful. Its syntax simplicity, as manifested in involving and chaining utilities jointly at the line of command notwithstanding the governing rules being minimal, make script crafting more adaptable (ibid). Short scripts normally work correctly at their initial trials and the long ones are easily debagged.
Personal computing some time back used BASIC language that made it possible for one to write early generation microcomputer programs. Currently the Bash scripting language makes it possible for one with basic Linux or UNIX proficiency to write the programs on modern computers (Friedl 2002, p. 38)
A complex application is prototyped faster by use of a shell script. In project development initially, its quite appropriate to obtain a subset of the script’s working functionality. Therefore, before approaching the C, Java or Python final coding, major shortcomings in the structure of the application can easily be identified.
Shell scripting put on view the traditional methodology of breaking into simpler tasks projects or binding utilities and components together, quite characteristic of UNIX. it has been preferred by many users due to its ability to address problem solving issues in comparison to the all-in-one languages for example, Perl that may be more user friendly but conditioning ones thought system to adopt to it.
Shell scripting comes in handy when simple tasks are being automated for example in backups and in comparison to other programs, it performs the find-and-replace function in multiple files more satisfactorily as well as being quite appropriate in performing tasks such as keeping a tar ball in a home dictionary.
Kochan and wood (1990, p. 118) are of the opinion that based on its simplicity and appropriateness, it instructs one on how to appropriately utilize the command line as using tools or glooming is quite limited.
Shell script particularly enables one to cut down tasks in comparison to for example GUI use. Many command lines can be redirected or piped to function together as is in the case of Linux.
It is quite efficient in monitoring the Linux system; snapshot creation and data backup, creating alert systems that are e-mail based as well as being quite of significance when one wants to know the amount of memory that is available or free in their system.
With shell scripting, one can perform operations such as the dumping of Oracle or MySQL for backup. Information on local or remote servers as well as configuring servers such as the DNS server turns out to be possible tasks in active use of shell scripting.