[Linux] Bash sudo uso: Execute commands with elevated privileges

Overview

The sudo command allows a permitted user to execute a command as the superuser or another user, as specified by the security policy. It is commonly used to perform administrative tasks that require higher privileges than those available to a standard user.

Usage

The basic syntax of the sudo command is as follows:

sudo [options] [command]

Common Options

• -u [user]: Run the command as the specified user instead of the default superuser.
• -k: Invalidate the user’s cached credentials.
• -l: List the user’s privileges or the commands they are allowed to run.
• -i: Execute the command in a login shell as the target user.
• -s: Run the command with the target user’s shell.

Common Examples

Here are some practical examples of using the sudo command:

1. Update package lists:

   sudo apt update
   

   This command updates the package lists for upgrades and new package installations.

2. Install a package:

   sudo apt install vim
   

   This command installs the Vim text editor.

3. Edit a system file:

   sudo nano /etc/hosts
   

   This command opens the /etc/hosts file in the Nano text editor with elevated privileges.

4. Restart a service:

   sudo systemctl restart apache2
   

   This command restarts the Apache web server.

5. Check user privileges:

   sudo -l
   

   This command lists the commands the user is allowed to run with sudo.

Tips

• Always be cautious when using sudo, as it can modify system files and settings.
• Use sudo -k to clear your cached credentials if you want to require a password for the next sudo command.
• Consider using sudo -u [user] to run commands as a different user when necessary, which can help in managing permissions effectively.