switch user in linux Archives

Deepak Kanojiya
Aug, Wed, 2024

Linux

How to Switch User in Linux [Linux Change User]

Switching users in Linux is a crucial skill that enhances your ability to manage system tasks and access different user environments. Whether you want to perform administrative functions or simply switch to another user’s settings, understanding the commands and options available is essential. In this guide, we will explore how to switch users in Linux using the SU (Substitute User) command, discuss its syntax and options, and provide practical examples.

Substitute User (SU) Command Syntax

The “substitute user” command allows you to switch between user accounts without logging out. This command is particularly useful when you need to perform tasks as another user or access root privileges.

Basic Syntax of the “SU” Command

The basic syntax for the “SU” command is straightforward:

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SU [options] [username]

[username]: The name of the user account you wish to switch to.The command defaults to the root user if no username is provided.
[options]: Additional parameters that modify the command’s behavior.

Substitute User (SU) Command Options

The SU command comes with various options that allow you to tailor its functionality to your needs. Understanding these options will help you use the command more effectively.

Common Options for the `SU` Command

“ –” or “ -l ”(login shell): This option directs the user to their login shell environment, executing a full login. It loads the user’s environment variables, profile settings, and configuration files.

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SU – [username]
“ -C ” (command): This function enables the execution of a single command as the target user. This option is useful when you want to perform a specific task without fully switching users.

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SU -C “[command]” [username]
“ -S ” (shell): The statement indicates a different shell for the session. This is useful when you want to use a different command-line interface for the switched session.

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SU -S /bin/bash [username]
“ -P ” (preserve environment): The current environment variables are retained instead of loading the target user’s settings.

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SU -P [username]

How to Switch User in Linux [Linux Change User]

Switching users in Linux involves several practical scenarios where you might need to change the active user account. Below are common methods and scenarios for switching users.

Change Linux User to Another User

Switching from one user to another within the same session is a common task. For instance, if you are logged in as a regular user and need to switch to another regular user’s account, use:

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SU [other-username]

This will prompt you for the other user’s password and log you into their account

Execute a specific command as a different user

If you want to execute a specific command as another user without fully switching accounts, use the “-C” option:

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SU -C “ls /home/[other-username]” [other-username]

This command lists the contents of the specified user’s home directory without switching the entire session.

Switching to a Different Shell Environment

Sometimes, it may be necessary to utilize a different shell for specific tasks. To switch to another user’s account with a different shell, use the -s option:

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SU -S /bin/zsh [username]

This switches to the target user’s account using the Z shell (zsh) instead of the default shell.

In the same environment, it is possible to use a different user

To maintain the current environment variables while switching users, use the -p option:

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SU -P [username]

This approach allows you to switch users without altering the environment variables set in the current session.

Conclusion

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