Computer geeks prioritize an operating system, Linux. Linux turned out to be handy to professionals in the 1990s. It is an open-source operating system.
The screen we use to operate an OS is called a shell. CSH and BASH are shells. Shells are a medium of conversation between programmers and the device. We deliver commands and receive output.
Key Takeaways
- CSH is a C-like shell, while Bash is a Unix shell.
- CSH has a syntax similar to C programming language, while Bash is similar to Bourne shell.
- CSH is less popular and less frequently used than Bash.
Csh vs BASH
Csh or C-shell is a command language translator that features built-in features, making it interactive and unique, and it interprets external commands. Bash is also known as bourne again shell and is a unique command and shell language that is well structured. It is an extension of the bourne shell.
Csh resembles C programming. Users familiar with performing C programming find it homely. This was introduced in the 1970s by Bill Joy.
It was established as a part of Berkeley Software Distribution in 1978. The C-shell got its name after its syntax, the C programming.
It was developed with the motive of having an easier interactive approach. Command history is one of its glorious aspects. One of its many features includes job control facilities.
It is accessed as a script shell command runner and an interactive shell login. It becomes tough to use on some occasions.
Bash, like Csh, is a shell program. However, it has a subtle variation than Csh. It is the modified version of ‘sh’, the bourne shell.
The Bourne shell is believed to be the fundamental shell. Bash is Bourne Again Shell. Bash was composed by Brian Fox.
He collected some of the goof features of other shells and armed bash into a unique shell program. It is widely accepted in the computer geek world.
It is the default in Linux. It came into action in 1989. When you step into the bash terminal, a prompt welcomes you. The prompt is $.
You must be aware of what you want to command. Without the knowledge of command, it can be a pain in the ass.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of comparison | Csh | Bash |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | C shell | Bourne Again Shell |
| Characteristics | Interactive | Non- interactive |
| Developer | Bill Joy | Brian Fox |
| Difficulty | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Year | The 1970s | Re-invented in 1989 |
What is Csh?
Csh is also known as C- shell, a command language translator. It is built with features that make it unique and spread out. Users find it interactive.
It stands out as it cites other programs. A user-biased program that interprets external commands.
The skeleton of the command initiates with the ‘%’ prompt and concludes with ^D, followed by the ‘%’ prompt. ^D signifies that the command has come to an end.
Few instances:
^H represents the backspace key.
^U represents the kill character.
^? Signifies erase key or delete.
An argument follows a command. The flag argument is one such important notion. It is initiated by ‘-’. If given the command, it specifies the size of the file as well.
Special characters are utilized. They have a semantic and syntactic illustration of shells. We can look for filenames separated by ‘/’.
Each section unfolds its place in the directory. We can apply quotation ‘*’. Termination of command is possible. Each shell has its set of variables.
We can transform input commands via Aliases. You type ‘mkdir’ to form a new directory. You can separate one directory from another. This makes your search easy (well, you have to remember the folder to command).
What is Bash?
Bourne again, shell or bash. Bash is a unique command and shell language. Brian Fox modified the initial ‘sh’ or bourne shell to BASH. Bash is the well-structured extension of the bourne shell. It is the most widely used shell.
Few instances:
Echo “peace”, we will get ‘peace’ as our output.
There are a few default commands. If you type the date in the terminal, you will get the information as output. Cal for the calendar, you will receive the information as output.
pwd stands for print working directory. Command this, and you will receive the information about the current directory you are working in.
‘ls’ gives insight into the files, emails, and folders that you are currently working with (list storage is ‘ls’). It provides you with the information stored in your home directory.
You can navigate to a folder using ‘cd’ and navigate the gate by ‘cd..’.
The dollar sign (‘$’ signifies you are logged in as a standard user.)
The Main Difference Between Csh vs Bash
The main difference between Csh vs Bash is that Bash includes some of the features of csh as well.
- C-shell commands commence with ‘#’. Bash begins with ‘;’.
- Csh is an interactive terminal, bash is considered non-interactive.
- Bill Joy came up with Csh, Bash was re-invented by Brian Fox.
- Bash is widely used by professional geeks rather than Csh.
- Csh was initially run in the 1970s, while Bash was newly structured in 1989.
- https://fossies.org/linux/bash/doc/bashref.pdf
- https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/b6b0/4381634a883131e1b55ca645d499c9538d65.pdf
Last Updated : 04 September, 2023
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
Bash seems to have an edge over Csh in terms of support and usage.
Certainly, Bash has gained widespread adoption in the industry.
Although Csh may be favored by some, I believe Bash is the more versatile shell.
I respectfully disagree, I find Csh to be more versatile in many cases.
I’d also argue that Csh has its place, especially for those familiar with C programming.
The extensive adoption of Bash across various platforms solidifies its position as a leading shell.
Indeed, Bash provides a standardized environment for users.
While Csh has its merits, the widespread usage of Bash makes it exceedingly valuable.
The syntax and structure of Bash make it undoubtedly more accessible for beginners.
It’s true, Csh can be more challenging for those starting out.
But the functionality of Csh should not be discounted, especially for experienced users.
I had always heard of Csh, but there was a lot in this article I didn’t know!
In comparison, it appears that Bash is far more user-friendly than Csh.
Agreed, that’s been my experience as well.
Absolutely, the management of commands in Bash is far easier.
It seems clear that in the battle of Csh vs Bash, Bash is the clear winner.
I beg to differ, I’ve had great success with Csh.
I would think that in almost all instances Bash is the preferred shell.