sort Ref by Libor Benes

sort Ref is a lightweight Firefox sidebar extension providing efficient offline access to 107 essential sort command options, field keys, flags, and practical usage scenarios. Designed as a rapid reference tool for the powerful text sorting utility, it's ideal for data organization, log processing, file merging, and shell scripting workflows.

The sort command originated in early Unix systems as a fundamental text processing tool. A sort command was first implemented within Multics. Later, it appeared in Version 1 Unix. This version was originally written by Ken Thompson at AT&T Bell Laboratories in November 1971.

sort, a fundamental Unix utility, organizes lines of text files in specified orders. Its ability to sort by multiple fields, handle various data types (numeric, human-readable, version numbers), and merge pre-sorted files makes it indispensable for system administration and data processing tasks.

sort Ref continues the Unix tradition of powerful, focused text processing tools by providing immediate access to sort's extensive capabilities without leaving the browser environment. The extension embodies the Unix philosophy of doing one thing well: providing sort reference information efficiently and securely.

Perfect for rapid reference while organizing data, processing logs, merging files, or preparing datasets in shell scripts. sort Ref delivers immediate value with emphasis on user security and system performance.

Target Audience:
• System Administrators organizing logs and system data.
• Data Analysts preparing and sorting datasets.
• Developers processing text files and outputs.
• Shell Scripting Enthusiasts automating data organization.
• DevOps Engineers managing system outputs and logs.

Features:
• Comprehensive Database: 107 entries covering core options (-n, -r, -k, -t, -u), numeric/human/version sorts, field-based sorting, file merging, and practical real-world examples.
• Instant Search: Real-time filtering by flag, key, or description for immediate reference.
• Compact Interface: Space-efficient sidebar design optimized for quick lookups during terminal work.
• Click-to-Copy: One-click copying of any command for immediate use in terminal.

Content Coverage:
The extension includes essential sort elements:
• Basic Sorting: Alphabetical, case-insensitive, reverse ordering.
• Numeric Sorting: Standard numeric, general numeric (scientific notation), human-readable sizes.
• Field-based Sorting: Single and multiple key sorting, field separators, character ranges.
• Specialized Sorting: Version numbers, month names, dictionary order.
• File Operations: Output to file, merging sorted files, checking sorted status.
• Performance Options: Parallel processing, memory management, temporary directories.
• Practical Examples: User list sorting, file size ordering, process sorting, data merging.

Security-First Design:
• Zero Permissions Required: No special browser permissions requested.
• No Data Collection.
• No Tracking.
• Entirely Offline: No network dependencies with all data stored locally.
• Local Processing Only: All operations occur within the sidebar with no external calls.
• Secure Implementation: Uses only safe DOM methods.
• No Third-Party Dependencies: Pure JavaScript/HTML/CSS with no external libraries.
• Manifest v2 Compliant: Adheres to Mozilla's security standards.

Design Philosophy:
• Color Scheme: Terminal-inspired colors matching typical command-line tool aesthetics.
• Readability: Clear formatting with bold red commands and hanging indent descriptions.
• Efficiency: Minimal interface focused on rapid information retrieval.
• Stability: No animations or effects that would add complexity and could interfere with browsing or add security vulnerabilities.

Technical Details:
• Compatibility: Firefox 109.0+ (64-bit desktop).
• Resource-Efficient: 35 KB total file size.
• Storage: All command data embedded in a local JavaScript file.
• Performance: Instant search response with efficient filtering algorithms.
• Testing: Verified on Firefox 147.0.1 (January 2026).