sudo for elevated privileges in Linux CLI - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What does the sudo command do in Linux?

sudo lets a user run commands with the security privileges of another user, usually the superuser (root). It is used to perform tasks that require higher permissions.

beginner

Why should you be careful when using sudo?

Using sudo gives you powerful access that can change or damage system files. Mistakes can cause system problems or security risks.

beginner

How do you run a command with sudo?

Simply type sudo before the command. For example, sudo apt update runs the update command with elevated privileges.

beginner

What happens if you enter the wrong password when using sudo?

The command will not run. sudo asks for your user password to confirm your identity. If wrong, it denies access.

intermediate

What is the difference between su and sudo?

su switches the user to another user account (often root) and requires that user's password. sudo runs a single command with elevated rights using your own password.

What is the main purpose of the sudo command?

A Change file permissions

B Switch to a different user account permanently

C List files in a directory

D Run commands with higher privileges

sudo allows running commands with elevated privileges, usually as root.

Which password does sudo ask for when you run a command?

A Root user password

B No password is required

C Your own user password

D The password of the last logged-in user

sudo asks for your own password to verify your identity.

What happens if you enter the wrong password when using sudo?

A Access is denied and the command does not run

B You get logged out

C The command runs anyway

D The system restarts

Wrong password means sudo denies access and does not run the command.

Which command runs a single command with elevated privileges without switching users?

A su

B sudo

C chmod

D passwd

sudo runs a single command with elevated privileges.

Why is it important to use sudo carefully?

A It can cause system damage if misused

B It disables the internet

C It deletes your user account

D It can slow down your computer

Using sudo incorrectly can damage system files or cause security issues.

Explain what sudo does and why it is used in Linux.

Think about how you get permission to do special tasks on your computer.

Describe the difference between sudo and su commands.

One lets you do one thing as admin, the other changes who you are.