(Kali) Linux commands for fun: PART-1

Typically, the powerhouse for its user and sysadmins is the terminal. Linux, however, is more than just a lot of laborious effort. There is a lot of excellent open source software available, but some of it was created purely for enjoyment. When you wish a smile, play with these on your own.

Steam locomotive (sl)

The command "sl" stands for steam locomotive, and when it is executed, a stream locomotive moves across the terminal. Its objective is to be laughable if someone mistypes the ls command.

Commands

Install Steam Locomotive on Kali : $ sudo apt install sl

To run sl: $ sl

Lolcat

Lolcat is a package that adds a rainbow colouring effect to text displayed on consoles. It can also be piped with other command’s output to add a rainbow tint to the result.

Commands

Install Lolcat on Kali : $ sudo apt install lolcat

To run lolcat: $ ls | lolcat Note: This is just an example; any command can be used to pipe with lolcat.

FIGlet and banner

The FIGlet and banner commands allow you to make simple ASCII text banners. With the use usual text, it transforms the provided data into a banner.

Commands

Install FIGlet on Kali : $ sudo apt install figlet

To run FIGlet: $ figlet "The Text"

Install banner on Kali : $ sudo apt install banner

To run banner: $ banner "The Text"

FIGlet fonts with lolcat

With lolcat, you can also use figlet and banner as well. Here, I’ll show you how to use lolcat with figlet and its beautiful fonts.

Commands

Lolcat with figlet: $ figlet "witchblue" | lolcat

To view figlet fonts : $ showfigfonts

Figfonts and lolcat combo: $ figlet -f slant "witchblue" | lolcat

To explore all the options and iterations, make sure you explore the man pages of each command. I really hope you enjoy experimenting with these fun commands…