Type: How to Manage Users in Linux

This updated guide examines Type: How to Manage Users in Linux and organizes the essential facts, background, and practical takeaways in clear American English.

Method 1of 4:

Adding Users

1. Typeadduser -d /home/users/into the command line.
   • Example: adduser bob -d /home/users/bob
2. Typepasswdand press return to set a password for the new user.
   1. Type the new password.
   2. Confirm the password.

Method 2of 4:

Modifying Users

Changing Passwords

1. Typepasswdin the command line.
2. Enter the new password for the user.
   • Note: the cursor will not move however your password is being typed.
3. Confirm the new password.

Method 3of 4:

Removing Users

1. Typeuserdelinto the command line to delete a user.
   • Example: userdel bob
2. Typeuserdel -rto also delete their home folder and files.

Method 4of 4:

Sudo and Su

Terms

• sudo: Switch User and Do
  • Executes a command as root or another use while maintaining your current session.
• su: Switch User
  • Switches your session to another user.

Usage

1. Typesudobefore a command to execute the command as the root user. You will be prompted for a password.
   • Example: sudo apt-get install telnet
2. Typesudobefore a command to execute the command as another user on the system. You will be promoted for that users password.
   • Example: sudo bob telnet localhost 22
3. Typesuto switch your command line session to the root user. You will be promoted for a password.
   • Type logout to switch back.
4. Typesuto switch your command line session to another user. You will be promoted for their password.
   • Type logout to switch back.