su (switch user) in Linux CLI - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What does the su command do in Linux?

The su command lets you switch from your current user to another user account in the terminal. It stands for "switch user."

beginner

How do you switch to the root user using su?

You type su and press Enter. Then you enter the root user's password when asked. This gives you root access.

intermediate

What is the difference between su and su -?

su switches user but keeps your current environment. su - switches user and loads the new user's full environment, like a fresh login.

beginner

How do you switch to another user named alice using su?

You type su alice and press Enter. Then enter Alice's password when prompted.

beginner

Why might you use exit after using su?

Typing exit logs you out of the switched user session and returns you to your original user.

What does the command su - do differently than su?

A Logs out the current user

B Switches user but keeps the current environment

C Shows the current user name

D Switches user and loads the new user's environment

su - switches user and loads the new user's full environment, like a fresh login.

Which password do you need to enter when you run su alice?

A Alice's password

B Your own password

C Root password

D No password is needed

You must enter the password of the user you want to switch to, in this case, Alice's password.

What happens if you type su without a username?

A Switches to root user

B Switches to guest user

C Shows an error

D Logs out current user

Typing su alone switches to the root user by default.

How do you return to your original user after using su?

A Type <code>logout</code>

B Close the terminal

C Type <code>exit</code>

D Press Ctrl+C

Typing exit ends the switched user session and returns you to your original user.

Why is su useful in Linux?

A To update software automatically

B To switch between different user accounts

C To create new files

D To check disk space

su lets you switch between user accounts in the terminal.

Explain how to switch to the root user using su and how to return to your original user.

Think about logging in as root and then logging out.

Describe the difference between su and su - and when you might use each.

Consider how environment variables and settings change.