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How to Check OS Version in Linux

How to Check OS Version in Linux
Hostman Team
Technical writer
Linux
21.08.2025
Reading time: 11 min
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The popularity of the powerful and versatile Linux operating system lies in the variety of available versions. From Ubuntu to Red Hat, from Mint to Fedora, each Linux version offers users unique features and benefits. Hostman offers a reliable managed Linux VPS. It is important to check Linux OS version for compatibility, as varied versions have different software requirements.

You might not be able to install and run the most recent software updates if you're using an earlier version. particular Linux versions might not support particular hardware components. You can resolve any compatibility problems by being aware of your OS version. Thus, it's critical to verify the Linux OS version and be aware of the one you're using.

Knowing your OS version in Linux is obligatory for security reasons. All operating systems release updates to address security vulnerabilities, and Linux is no exception. If you know your OS version, you can be sure that the necessary security updates are installed. This is especially important for businesses and organizations dealing with confidential information and requiring strong security control.

Another reason for checking Linux OS version is for support purposes. Various versions differentiate by support lifecycles. They have limited time to receive updates and support from developers. Knowing your OS version gives you an idea of ​​when it needs to be updated. An unsupported Linux version can leave your system vulnerable to security threats and compatibility issues.

Checking Linux OS Version

Checking Linux OS Version is Pretty Simple

What is a Linux Version

A Linux version, commonly termed a distro or distribution, is a customized version of the Linux operating system. It comes with a tailored mix of software, desktop environments, and functionalities. These distributions are custom-made to meet the varied needs and desires of their users. This comprises everything from individual PC users to huge corporations. Linux's open-source nature and flexibility enable various people and organizations to create and modify these distributions to meet specific needs.

For example:

  • Distributions such as Ubuntu, Debian, and Linux Mint are pretty useful for beginners because they offer user-friendly interfaces, extensive documentation, and a strong community network.

  • Advanced distributions like Arch Linux grant unparalleled customization and autonomy, ideal for users who prefer crafting their systems from the ground up.

  • Server-oriented distributions like CentOS and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) are engineered for reliability, security, and top-tier performance, making them perfect for enterprise environments and critical applications.

  • Specialized distributions like Kali Linux for security testing and Tails for anonymity are designed for specific purposes.

A typical Linux distribution includes the Linux kernel (which controls hardware), a package manager (for installing and updating applications), and a set of default applications. The desktop environment (like GNOME, XFCE, or KDE) can be tailored in appearance and functionality to align with user preferences.

Popular Linux distributions and their versions

It’s important to check the Linux OS version as the operating system offers a large selection of distributions, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Common forms include Ubuntu, Debian, Red Hat, CentOS, Fedora and Mint.

Ubuntu is famous for its user-friendly interface and regular updates. Debian is known for its strict adherence to free software principles. Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) offers a stable and secure platform for businesses. CentOS provides similar features to users for free. Fedora is distinguished by its frequent updates and use of the latest software. Mint features a more traditional desktop environment.

The software, desktop environment, and support lifespan of each version varies. There are multiple releases or versions of each distribution, each with its own code names and updates. Fedora offers editions like Silverblue and Workstation, while Ubuntu has editions like Bionic Beaver, Cosmic Cuttlefish, and Disco Dingo. They cater to a diverse spectrum of users' wants and tastes.

Each Linux distribution has its own unique version numbering system, because it is an open-source operating system developed and maintained by a community of developers. Therefore, each distribution has its own set of developers who make decisions about naming and numbering their releases. Users can easily determine which version they are using and what changes have been made since the last update, and developers can track their progress and plan future releases. 

Typically a three-level version numbering system with numbers separated by dots is used. The first number is a major release for updates or changes to the distribution, the second number is a minor release for bug fixes, security updates, and minor feature additions, the third number is a hotfix release for minor bug fixes and updates.

Ubuntu uses a version numbering system in the format 'XX.YY.ZZ', where the first number is a year, the second is a month of release, and the third number is incremented with each new release that month. The system displays the age of release and frequency of updates.

Code names, such as names of animals or cities, are also used to recognize releases of Linux distributions. Fedora uses code names for its releases like 'Bordeaux' and 'Heisenbug' to make it easier for users to navigate the different versions.

There are numerous methods for determining the Linux operating system version and obtaining distribution details. We'll talk about the most popular. Continue reading to find out how to check the Linux OS version.

How to check the Linux OS version through the 'lsb_release' command

You can apply the lsb_release command to check the Linux OS version. You’ll receive detailed information about the distribution, release, and codename of your operating system.

  1. To start, open the terminal;

  2. Type the command:

lsb_release -a

  1. Press Enter to view a list of information displayed in your terminal.

C56d4f7a 2f24 4048 Be0c 67c63857aca6

Here's the main screen oof terminal with Linux OS version

  • The Distributor ID line is a name of your Linux distribution, for instance, Ubuntu, Fedora, or CentOS.

  • The Description line is a brief description of your Linux distribution with details such as the release number and the codename of your system.

  • The Release line is a display of the specific version of your Linux distribution, such as '18.04' for Ubuntu or a name like 'Bionic Beaver.'

  • The Codename line is your system’s codename assigned to each version of a Linux distribution, such as 'Bionic Beaver' for Ubuntu 18.04.

How to check the OS version in Linux through the 'cat /etc/os-release' command

You can apply the cat /etc/os-release command to check the OS version in Linux. It will help you quickly determine your OS version and show detailed information.

  1. To start, open the terminal; 

  2. Type the command:

cat /etc/os-release

  1. Press Enter to view a list of information displayed on your terminal.

1045c272 3aba 450d 967f 5019a859f72e"Cat" is a most popular method to check your OS version

  • The ID field is the name of your Linux distribution, such as Ubuntu or CentOS.

  • The VERSION_ID field is the specific version of that distribution, such as Ubuntu 18.04 or CentOS 7.

The cat /etc/os-release command shows other useful information about your operating system, such as the name and version of the operating system kernel, the desktop environment or window manager you are using, and the OS build and release date.

How to check version of OS in Linux through the 'uname -a' command

You can apply the uname -a command to check the Linux OS version. It displays detailed information about your system's kernel version, architecture, processor type, hostname, and even the date and time of the last system boot.

  1. To start, open the terminal; 

  2. Type the command:

uname -a

  1. Press Enter to view a list of information displayed on your terminal.

UnameThis is a most fastest ways to check everything you need

The output typically includes the Linux operating system kernel version and system architecture to ensure that you download and install the correct version of the software, avoiding compatibility issues and potential bugs. The command also provides information about the last time the system booted for analyzing system performance and identifying potential problems.

Other ways to check OS version in Linux

  • The hostnamectl command

This is a new way to check the Linux OS version, available on systems using systemd. It provides more detailed data than previous methods, including kernel version, architecture, and hardware platform.

  1. To get the output, open the terminal; 

  2. Type the command:

hostnamectl

  1. Press Enter to view a list of information displayed on your terminal.

C44fdb8b A09a 4a03 A1d4 8d35d06fe483

"Hostnamectl" is and alternative to other methods

  • The /etc/os-release file

The /etc directory contains configuration files and scripts used by the system, including the os-release file with information about the OS version

To get the output, open the terminal and enter the command:

cat /etc/os-release

83621b31 F710 4db3 A72a B70fcaee3e61You can also check release date among with version of OS

  • The /etc/issue file

This file with system information is used for login prompts as well as for checking the OS version in Linux.

To get the output, enter the command:

cat /etc/issue

F6085c18 3b4d 49bb B4c5 277389d53352

This one's also fast and cool method to see useful info

The name and version of the operating system are displayed here.

  • The version file

Some Linux distributions have a version file in the /etc directory with information about the distribution and version.

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To get the output, open the terminal and enter the command:

cat /etc/version

The distribution name and version number are displayed here.

How to Check Linux OS Version Using GUI

This operating system has several ways to check your OS version. We have already explored the common methods through the command line interface. Now let’s learn how to check the Linux OS version without command. This is where the graphical user interface (GUI) comes into play, offering a convenient way to access system information.

You need to access the system settings:

  1. To start, click on the 'Activities' button on the top-left corner of the screen;

  2. Enter 'system' in the search bar;

  3. Navigate to the 'System Settings' window and click the 'Details' option to display the OS name, version, and other system information in a new window.

Checking the OS version in any Linux distribution is similar and differs slightly only in names of the buttons or windows in the search bar:  

  • In Ubuntu click on the 'Activities' button and type 'System Settings' in the search bar, then navigate to the 'Details' tab.

  • In Fedora click on the 'Show Applications' button and type 'Settings' in the search bar, then navigate to the 'About' tab.

  • In CentOS click on the 'Applications' button and navigate to 'System Tools' and then 'Settings', then navigate to the 'System' tab.

And if you’re looking for a reliable, high-performance, and budget-friendly solution for your workflows, Hostman has you covered with Linux VPS Hosting options, including Debian VPS, Ubuntu VPS, and VPS CentOS.

Checking the OS Version in Linux FAQ

Let's go over a few frequently asked questions about Linux OS versions.

Why is it vital to check the OS version in Linux?

Verifying the OS version in Linux is essential for ensuring compatibility, maintaining security, and accessing support. Each version has distinct software prerequisites, life cycle durations, and security patches.

How often should I check my Linux OS version?

Consistently verifying your OS version is crucial, especially before adding new software or updates. This practice keeps your system current and secure.

What are some of the widely recognized Linux distributions?

Some widely recognized Linux distributions are Ubuntu, Debian, Kali Linux, Raspberry Pi, CentOS, Fedora, and Linux Mint. Each one boasts unique features designed to cater to the diverse needs of its user base.

Can I check the Linux OS version using a GUI?

Yes, you can check the Linux OS version via the GUI by heading to the system settings and locating the 'Details' or 'About' section, depending on your particular distribution.

Why do various Linux distributions have unique version numbering systems?

Each Linux distribution is developed and maintained by a different community or organization. Consequently, they all have unique version numbering systems to monitor progress and schedule future releases. For instance, Ubuntu's version number format is 'XX.YY.ZZ', where 'XX' denotes the year, 'YY' indicates the month of release, and 'ZZ' increments with each new release within that month.

Conclusion

Linux OS versions vary in underlying architecture, package management system, desktop environment, security features, compatibility, and release cycles. Each version has its own unique set of features and benefits, so users can choose the one that best suits their needs and preferences. Understanding your Linux OS version helps you in troubleshooting and solving problems, providing a better insight into the system's capabilities and limitations, allowing you to make informed decisions when it comes to upgrading or modifying the system.

Now you have learned the different methods on how to check OS version in Linux through special commands or using GUI. Choose the best way for yourself and use it. Regularly checking and updating your Linux OS version is a good practice to ensure productive and hassle-free operation of your computer. This ensures that the system is running the latest version and all necessary security protocols are installed.

If you're already found out your Linux version, don't forget to check how to create a server image on Linux.

Linux
21.08.2025
Reading time: 11 min
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Linux

Linux cp Command

Linux has an unlimited set of commands to perform assigned tasks. The Linux cp command is the primary tool and the basis for copying and managing files and directories in this operating system. This function is designed to duplicate files or directories in the same or different location. Armed with this functionality, users have advanced capabilities: from creating backup copies to moving files between directories. Linux cp command is simple to learn You can find all the necessary information covered in this tutorial. You will discover how the Linux cp command and cp directory work, as well as its grammatical structures, crucial hints, parameters, settings, and recommended practices. Readers will learn the tricks of the cp command, which will help them become more proficient. And if you’re looking for a reliable, high-performance, and budget-friendly solution for your workflows, Hostman has you covered with virtual servers with NVMe storage, Linux VPS Hosting options, including Debian VPS, Ubuntu VPS, and VPS CentOS. The core of the cp command in Linux The functionality of the command allows users to control the creation of copies. One feature offers overwriting existing files, another is responsible for recursively copying a directory with its entire entities, and the third protects the first data for repeating backups. This command demonstrates more features for specific purposes and user experience during the process. A key benefit of the cp command is its exceptional accuracy in duplicating files and directories. You can be absolutely sure that the duplicated files are identical to the original ones with all its interior. Therefore, the user can replicate the original file without any changes. The cp command in Linux inherently tells the user a destination directory for storing copies in a specific repository. The command's precision makes it indispensable for both novice and advanced users. Linux cp syntax This command consists of the following parameters: source file or directory and destination directory. The basic syntax of the Linux cp command is as follows: cp [...file/directory-sources] [destination] Here [file/directory-sources] specifies the files or directories sources to copy, while the [destination] specifies the location to copy the file to. There are the letter flags to specify the way of creation a replica of files and directories: -a leaves the first file attributes the same; -r recursively replicates directories and their interior entities; -v shows copied files in detail; -i requires consent to overwrite the file; -u rewrites new or missing files in the destination directory; -f forcibly copies without user consent; -s makes a symbolic link instead of a file replica; -ra recreates an exact duplicate of a file or directory without changing attributes; -rf updates or changes a file or directory with the original name in the same place; -pv (if installed) monitors and shows the time required to complete copying large folders. How to copy files with the cp command To make a file copy, apply the cp command in Linux as follows: cp ./DirectoryA_1/README.txt ./DirectoryA_2 where ./DirectoryA_1/README.txt is the source file, and ./DirectoryA_2 is the destination. The cp command was originally designed to interact with files. To replicate directories, you must use the -r flag to command that the directory with all its interior entities to be copied recursively. Therefore, you should write cp -r before the directory sources in Linux as follows: cp -r ./DirectoryA_1/Folder/ ./DirectoryA_2 The cp -r command in Linux will recursively duplicate the Folder directory in ./DirectoryA_1/ as well as all contents in the Folder directory. For instance, if you need to replicate the whole file contents in DirectoryA_1 with the .txt extension, try following command: cp ./DirectoryA_1/*.txt ./DirectoryA_2 where ./DirectoryA_1/*.txt matches files with the .txt extension in their names, and the cp command duplicates all those data to the destination. Best practices of the cp Linux command To duplicate one unit of information via the Linux cp command, write down the file name and destination directory. For instance, to replicate a file named example.txt to the 'Documents' directory, try the following command: cp example.txt Documents/ The action leads to creating a file duplicate in the 'Documents' directory with the original name. To copy multiple files at once, utilize the cp command in Linux, specifying the file names separated by a space. For instance, to duplicate three files named 'file1.txt', 'file2.txt', and 'file3.txt' to the 'Documents' directory, try the following command: cp file1.txt file2.txt file3.txt Documents/ To replicate a directory with all its interior entities, apply the -r that means cp recursive feature in Linux. For instance, to duplicate a directory named 'Pictures' to the 'Documents' directory, try the following command: cp -r Pictures Documents/ The action leads to creating a copy of the 'Pictures' directory with all its interior contents in the 'Documents' directory. To replicate a folder in Linux, you should utilize the -r flag. For instance, to duplicate a folder named 'Pictures' from the existing directory to a folder named 'Photos' in the home directory, try the following command: cp -r Pictures/ ~/Photos/ The destination folder will be created automatically if none exists. The files in the destination folder will be combined with the core of the source folder if one already exists. The cp -a feature in Linux leaves unchanged the initial file attributes while copying. Therefore, the duplicates will have the same parameters as their originals. For instance, to replicate a file named 'example.txt' to the 'Documents' directory while leaving unchanged its attributes, try the following command: cp -a example.txt Documents/ The Linux cp -v function showcases the progress of the duplication. At the same time the user can copy large files while monitoring the process. For instance, to replicate a file named 'largefile.zip' to the 'Downloads' directory while watching the progress, try the following command: cp -v largefile.zip Downloads/ The -i option requires the consent before overwriting an initial file. to protect against an accidental file rewriting. For instance, to duplicate a file named 'example.txt' to the 'Documents' directory, if a file with the identical name already exists, the cp command will require the consent before rewriting the original file. Initially, the Linux cp command copies a file or a directory to a default location. The system allows the user to specify any other location for the duplicate file or directory. For instance, to replicate a file named 'example.txt' from the 'Documents' directory to the 'Downloads' directory, try the following command: cp Documents/example.txt Downloads/ The cp -ra function in Linux is designed to carry out the copying process of directories with all their contents inside. The -r flag gives an order to repeat all the files and directories within an existing location, while the -a flag keeps the initial attributes preserved. Therefore, it is possible to make an exact duplicate of a directory without changing attributes. For instance, if you apply the command cp -ra /home/user1/documents /home/user2, it will replicate the 'documents' directory with all its entities inside in the 'user2' directory. The new folder will show the identical attributes as the initial item. The cp -rf feature in Linux is similar to the previous -ra option. The difference between these two functions is that the -f flag rewrites the given files or directories in the destination without requiring consent. Therefore, it is possible to update or replace an item with the identical name in the place of destination. For instance, if you apply the command cp -rf /home/user1/documents /home/user2, and there is already a 'documents' directory in the 'user2' directory, it will be overwritten with the contents of the 'documents' directory from the 'user1' directory. Be careful while utilizing the -rf function. Incorrect use of it leads to data loss. Check up twice the destination folder to avoid unwanted rewriting items. It is simpler to work with files and directories when you use Linux's cp -r capability with the -a and -f settings. Whereas the -rf particle modifies or replaces files and directories, the -ra particle precisely copies a directory and everything within it. You can learn how to handle stuff in this operating system by properly applying these differences. If you want to monitor and control the process of item duplication, which is not possible with other parameters of the cp command, use the -pv utility. To install the pv utility on Debian/Ubuntu you need to open the terminal and run the following command:  apt-get install pv After the installation is complete, verify it by running the following command in the terminal pv --version To install the pv utility on CentOS/Fedora, you need to connect the EPEL repository, which contains additional software packages unavailable in the default repositories. Run in the terminal: yum install epel-release Then run the following command in the terminal:  yum install pv  After the installation is complete, verify it by running the following command in the terminal:  pv --version To use this particle with the cp command, you should utilize | symbol. You can use the ~ symbol to indicate the root directory if the full path needs to be specified. For instance, to replicate a folder named 'Documents' from the root directory to a folder named 'Backup' in the home directory, try the following action: cp -r Documents/ ~/Backup/ | pv Example of executed Linux cp command Conclusion The cp command, although not an inherently difficult tool to learn, nevertheless provides basic knowledge of using the Linux operating system in terms of managing files and directories. In this tutorial, we tried to show the capabilities of the cp command in Linux from all sides, demonstrating best practices and useful tips of its various parameters. With new knowledge, you will be able to improve your skills in interacting with files and directories in Linux. The extreme accuracy of the copying process and additional options allow you to solve a wide range of problems. Multifunctionality helps users choose the file management mode and complete tasks efficiently. The command is a prime example of the many capabilities of this operating system, including the cp with progress feature in Linux. Altogether they unlock a potential of the system for novice and advanced users. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) How to copy files from one directory to another in Linux?  Use the cp command followed by the source path and then the destination path. Syntax: cp [source_file] [destination_directory] Example: cp /home/user/downloads/photo.jpg /home/user/pictures/ What are the most common cp command options? -r (Recursive): Essential for copying directories. It copies the folder and every file inside it. -i (Interactive): Prompts you for confirmation before overwriting an existing file. Highly recommended for beginners. -v (Verbose): Prints the name of each file as it is copied, so you can see the progress. -p (Preserve): Preserves the original file attributes like modification time, access time, and ownership modes. How do I copy a directory (folder)?  You must use the -r (recursive) flag. If you try to copy a folder without it, Linux will give you an error saying the source is a directory. Command: cp -r source_folder/ destination_folder/ How do I copy multiple files at once?  You can list multiple source files before the destination directory, or use wildcards. List: cp file1.txt file2.txt /backup/ Wildcard: cp *.jpg /home/user/images/ (Copies all JPG files). How do I prevent cp from overwriting existing files?  Use the -n (no clobber) flag. This tells Linux to silently skip any files that already exist in the destination folder, rather than replacing them. cp -n file.txt /backup/ What is the difference between cp -u and cp -n? -n never overwrites. -u (Update) only overwrites if the source file is newer than the destination file, or if the destination file is missing. This is useful for syncing folders.
22 January 2026 · 10 min to read
Linux

Using the ps aux Command in Linux

Effective system administration in Linux requires constant awareness of running processes. Whether diagnosing performance bottlenecks, identifying unauthorized tasks, or ensuring critical services remain operational, the ps aux command is an indispensable tool.  This guide provides a comprehensive exploration of ps aux, from foundational concepts to advanced filtering techniques, equipping you to extract actionable insights from process data. And if you’re looking for a reliable, high-performance, and budget-friendly solution for your workflows, Hostman has you covered with Linux VPS Hosting options, including Debian VPS, Ubuntu VPS, and VPS CentOS. Prerequisites To follow the tutorial: Deploy a Linux cloud server instance at Hostman SSH into the server instance Understanding Processes in Linux Before we explore the ps aux command, let's take a moment to understand what processes are in the context of a Linux system. What are Processes? A process represents an active program or service running on your Linux system. Each time you execute a command, launch an application, or initiate a background service, you create a process. Linux assigns a unique identifier, called a Process ID (PID), to each process. This PID allows the system to track and manage individual processes effectively. Why are Processes Grouped in Linux? Linux employs a hierarchical structure to organize processes. This structure resembles a family tree, where the initial process, init (or systemd), acts as the parent or ancestor. All other processes descend from this initial process, forming a parent-child relationship. This hierarchy facilitates efficient process management and resource allocation. The ps Command The ps (process status) command provides a static snapshot of active processes at the moment of execution. Unlike dynamic tools such as top or htop, which update in real-time, ps is ideal for scripting, logging, or analyzing processes at a specific point in time. The ps aux syntax merges three key options: a: Displays processes from all users, not just the current user. u: Formats output with user-oriented details like CPU and memory usage. x: Includes processes without an attached terminal, such as daemons and background services. This combination offers unparalleled visibility into system activity, making it a go-to tool for troubleshooting and analysis. Decoding the ps aux Output Executing ps aux generates a table with 11 columns, each providing critical insights into process behavior. Below is a detailed explanation of these columns: USER This column identifies the process owner. Entries range from standard users to system accounts like root, mysql, or www-data. Monitoring this field helps detect unauthorized processes or identify which users consume excessive resources. PID The Process ID (PID) is a unique numerical identifier assigned to each task. Administrators use PIDs to manage processes—for example, terminating a misbehaving application with kill [PID] or adjusting its priority using renice. %CPU and %MEM These columns display the percentage of CPU and RAM resources consumed by the process. Values above 50% in either column often indicate performance bottlenecks. For instance, a database process consuming 80% CPU might signal inefficient queries or insufficient hardware capacity. VSZ and RSS VSZ (Virtual Memory Size) denotes the total virtual memory allocated to the process, including memory swapped to disk. On the other hand, RSS (Resident Set Size) represents the physical memory actively used by the process. A process with a high VSZ but low RSS might reserve memory without actively utilizing it, which is common in applications that preallocate resources. TTY This field shows the terminal associated with the process. A ? indicates no terminal linkage, which is typical for background services like cron or systemd-managed tasks. STAT The STAT column reveals process states through a primary character + optional attributes: Primary States: R: Running or ready to execute. S: Sleeping, waiting for an event or signal. I: Idle kernel thread D: Uninterruptible sleep (usually tied to I/O operations). Z: Zombie—a terminated process awaiting removal by its parent. Key Attributes: s: Session leader N: Low priority <: High priority For example, a STAT value of Ss denotes a sleeping session leader, while l< indicates an idle kernel thread with high priority. START and TIME START indicates the time or date the process began. Useful for identifying long-running tasks. TIME represents the cumulative CPU time consumed since launch. A process running for days with minimal TIME is likely idle. COMMAND This column displays the command or application that initiated the process. It helps identify the purpose of a task—for example, /usr/bin/python3 for a Python script or /usr/sbin/nginx for an Nginx web server. Advanced Process Filtering Techniques While ps aux provides a wealth of data, its output can be overwhelming on busy systems. Below are methods to refine and analyze results effectively. Isolating Specific Processes To focus on a particular service—such as SSH—pipe the output to grep: ps aux | grep sshd Example output: root 579 0.0 0.5 15436 5512 ? Ss 2024 9:35 sshd: /usr/sbin/sshd -D [listener] 0 of 10-100 startups root 2090997 0.0 0.8 17456 8788 ? Ss 11:26 0:00 sshd: root@pts/0 root 2092718 0.0 0.1 4024 1960 pts/0 S+ 12:19 0:00 grep --color=auto sshd This filters lines containing sshd, revealing all SSH-related processes. To exclude the grep command itself from results, use a regular expression: ps aux | grep "[s]shd"  Example output: root 579 0.0 0.5 15436 5512 ? Ss 2024 9:35 sshd: /usr/sbin/sshd -D [listener] 0 of 10-100 startups root 2090997 0.0 0.8 17456 8788 ? Ss 11:26 0:00 sshd: root@pts/0 Sorting by Resource Consumption Identify CPU-intensive processes by sorting the output in descending order: ps aux --sort=-%cpu | head -n 10 Example output: USER PID %CPU %MEM VSZ RSS TTY STAT START TIME COMMAND mysql 1734280 0.4 36.4 1325172 357284 ? Ssl Jan30 87:39 /usr/sbin/mysqld redis 1424968 0.3 0.6 136648 6240 ? Ssl Jan18 112:25 /usr/bin/redis-server 127.0.0.1:6379 root 1 0.0 0.6 165832 6824 ? Ss 2024 5:51 /lib/systemd/systemd --system --deserialize 45 root 2 0.0 0.0 0 0 ? S 2024 0:00 [kthreadd] root 3 0.0 0.0 0 0 ? I< 2024 0:00 [rcu_gp] root 4 0.0 0.0 0 0 ? I< 2024 0:00 [rcu_par_gp] root 5 0.0 0.0 0 0 ? I< 2024 0:00 [slub_flushwq] root 6 0.0 0.0 0 0 ? I< 2024 0:00 [netns] root 8 0.0 0.0 0 0 ? I< 2024 0:00 [kworker/0:0H-events_highpri] Similarly, you can sort by memory usage to detect potential leaks: ps aux --sort=-%mem | head -n 10 Example output: USER PID %CPU %MEM VSZ RSS TTY STAT START TIME COMMAND mysql 1734280 0.4 36.4 1325172 357284 ? Ssl Jan30 87:39 /usr/sbin/mysqld root 330 0.0 4.4 269016 43900 ? S<s 2024 22:43 /lib/systemd/systemd-journald root 368 0.0 2.7 289316 27100 ? SLsl 2024 8:19 /sbin/multipathd -d -s root 1548462 0.0 2.5 1914688 25488 ? Ssl Jan23 2:08 /usr/bin/dockerd -H fd:// --containerd=/run/containerd/containerd.sock root 1317247 0.0 1.8 1801036 17760 ? Ssl Jan14 22:24 /usr/bin/containerd root 556 0.0 1.2 30104 11956 ? Ss 2024 0:00 /usr/bin/python3 /usr/bin/networkd-dispatcher --run-startup-triggers root 635 0.0 1.1 107224 11092 ? Ssl 2024 0:00 /usr/bin/python3 /usr/share/unattended-upgrades/unattended-upgrade-shutdown --wait-for-signal root 2090997 0.0 0.8 17456 8788 ? Ss 11:26 0:00 sshd: root@pts/0 root 2091033 0.0 0.8 9936 8480 pts/0 Ss 11:26 0:00 bash --rcfile /dev/fd/63 Real-Time Monitoring Combine ps aux with the watch command to refresh output every 2 seconds: watch -n 2 "ps aux --sort=-%cpu" This provides a dynamic view of CPU usage trends. Zombie Process Detection Zombie processes, though largely harmless, clutter the process list. Locate them with: ps aux | grep 'Z' Persistent zombies often indicate issues with parent processes failing to clean up child tasks. Practical Use Cases Now, let’s explore some common use cases of the ps aux command in Linux: Diagnosing High CPU Usage Follow the below steps: Execute this command to list processes by CPU consumption. ps aux --sort=-%cpu Identify the culprit—for example, a malfunctioning script using 95% CPU. If unresponsive, terminate the process gracefully with: kill [PID] Or forcibly with: kill -9 [PID] Detecting Memory Leaks Simply do the following: Sort processes by memory usage: ps aux --sort=-%mem Investigate tasks with abnormally high %MEM values. Restart the offending service or escalate to developers for code optimization. Auditing User Activity List all processes owned by a specific user (e.g., Jenkins): ps aux | grep ^jenkins This helps enforce resource quotas or investigate suspicious activity. Best Practices for Process Management Let’s now take a quick look at some best practices to keep in mind when managing Linux processes: Graceful Termination: Prefer kill [PID] over kill -9 to allow processes to clean up resources. Log Snapshots: Periodically save process lists for audits: ps aux > /var/log/process_audit_$(date +%F).log Contextual Analysis: A high %CPU value might be normal for a video encoder but alarming for a text editor. Hence, it’s essential to consider the context when making an analysis. Common Pitfalls to Avoid Here are some pitfalls to look out for when using ps aux in Linux: Misinterpreting VSZ: High virtual memory usage doesn’t always indicate a problem—it includes swapped-out data. Overlooking Zombies: While mostly benign, recurring zombies warrant investigating parent processes. Terminating Critical Services: Always verify the COMMAND field before using kill to avoid disrupting essential services. Conclusion The ps aux command is a cornerstone of Linux system administration, offering deep insights into process behavior and resource utilization. You can diagnose performance issues, optimize resource allocation, and maintain system stability by mastering its output interpretation, filtering techniques, and real-world applications.  Did you know? Hostman prepared an Object Storage for your project to save all necessary info for your server. Start using now! For further exploration, consult the ps manual (man ps) or integrate process monitoring into automated scripts for proactive system management. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) What is the ps aux command in Linux?  It is the most common command to view a snapshot of all running processes on the system. The flags break down as follows: a: Shows processes for all users, not just the current user. u: Displays the process's user/owner and provides detailed resource usage (CPU, RAM). x: Shows processes not attached to a terminal (background daemons). Why do we use the ps command in Linux? We use it to monitor system health and troubleshoot performance. It helps you identify which applications are consuming the most CPU or Memory, find the Process ID (PID) needed to stop a frozen program, and verify if background services are running correctly. How do you use the ps aux command to find zombie processes? Zombie processes (defunct) appear with a Z in the STAT column. You can filter for them specifically by running: ps aux | grep 'Z' Alternatively, to get a cleaner list excluding the grep command itself: ps aux | awk '$8=="Z" {print $0}' How do I sort the output by Memory or CPU usage?  By default, ps aux does not sort by usage. You can use the --sort option: Sort by Memory: ps aux --sort=-%mem Sort by CPU: ps aux --sort=-%cpu (The minus sign sorts in descending order). What do the VSZ and RSS columns mean? VSZ (Virtual Memory Size): The total virtual memory available to the process (including swap and shared libraries). RSS (Resident Set Size): The actual physical RAM the process is currently using. RSS is usually the more important number for checking memory usage. How do I kill a process I found using ps aux?  First, locate the PID (Process ID) in the second column of the output. Then run: sudo kill [PID] If the process refuses to close, you can force kill it with sudo kill -9 [PID].
22 January 2026 · 10 min to read
Linux

How to Create a Text File in Linux Terminal

In Linux, you can access and edit text files using a text editor that is designed to work with plain text. These files are not specifically coded or formatted. Choose your server now! There are several different ways to create a file in Linux. The Linux Command Line or Terminal is most likely the fastest. This is a crucial skill for any user, but especially for server administrators, who need to create text files, scripts, or configuration files quickly for their jobs. Let's proceed to the guide on four standard techniques for creating a text file on the terminal. And if you’re looking for a reliable, high-performance, and budget-friendly solution for your workflows, Hostman has you covered with Linux VPS Hosting options, including Debian VPS, Ubuntu VPS, and VPS CentOS. File Creation in Linux Can be Frustrating Sometimes Prerequisites for File Creation in Linux Ensure these prerequisites are met before generating files in a Linux environment using the command-line interface: Access to a Functional Linux System: You must either have a Linux-based operating system installed on your computer or secure access to a Linux server via SSH (Secure Shell) protocol. Operational Terminal Interface: Confirm that your terminal application is accessible and fully operational. The terminal serves as your primary gateway to executing commands. Adequate User Permissions: Verify you can create files within the chosen directory. You may need to use sudo (for directories with access restrictions) to escalate privileges. Fundamental Commands Proficiency: You must get familiar with essential commands, such as touch for file creation, echo for printing text, cat for viewing file contents, and text editors like nano, vim, or vi for editing files directly. Text Editing Utilities: Ensure your system includes text editing tools: nano for command line simplicity, vim for advanced configurations, or graphical options like gedit for user-friendly navigation. Directory Management Expertise: Develop familiarity with directory navigation commands like cd for changing the working directory and ls for listing directory contents. This knowledge streamlines your workflow and avoids potential errors. Using the touch Command Generally, we use the touch command to create empty files and change timestamps. It will create an empty file if it doesn't exist already.  To create a text file in the current directory with the touch command: Open your terminal emulator. Type the command: touch filename.txt Start with "touch" command Replace "filename" with the name you picked for the file. If the file with the same name already exists, the access and modification timestamps will be updated without affecting the content of the file. If not, a blank file with the specified name will be generated. Press Enter—if it is successful, there will be no output. Use the ls command to list the directory content and verify file creation. "LS" command is also important of you want to generate text file in Linux Using the echo Command Redirection The echo command is widely used to display text on the terminal. But its capabilities go beyond that; it may also be used to write content to a file or create an empty file. For this, combine the echo command with double redirect symbols (you can also use a single >) and the desired filename. A text file can be created by redirecting the output of the echo command to a file. See how it works: Open your terminal emulator. Type the command: echo “Your text content here” > filename.txt "Echo" command is also important in the process Replace the text in double quotations (do not delete them) with yours to add it to the file.  After you press Enter, your text will be added to the file filename.txt. It will overwrite an existing file, if there is one. Otherwise, it will just create a new one. Press Enter. To verify that the file has been created and contains the desired content, use cat command to display the content.  "Cat" command can help you to display your file you just created Using the cat Command Redirection In Linux, the cat command is mostly used to concatenate and show file contents. It can, however, also be used to generate a text document by redirecting the standard output of cat to a file. Open your terminal emulator. Type the following command: cat > filename.txt This is what you'll see after "cat" command Replace filename.txt with the name for your text file. This command instructs cat to receive input rom the terminal and to redirect it into the filename.txt. Press Enter. The terminal will be waiting for input.  Enter the text you want in the file. Press Enter after each line. Press Ctrl + D when you are done. This signals the end of input to the cat and saves the content.  Run the cat command to check that the file has been created and contains the desired content. This is how you can check how your file in Linux is created Using printf for Advanced File Creation The printf utility is a powerful alternative to echo, offering enhanced formatting options for structuring text. It allows users to create files with precisely formatted content. Open the terminal. Use printf to define the text layout, incorporating formatting elements like newlines (\n) or tabs (\t). Redirect the output to a file using the > operator. Example: printf "First Line\nSecond Line\nIndented\tThird Line\n" >  formatted_file.txt Run the cat command to inspect the file's content and ensure the formatting matches expectations. Append Without Overwriting: To add content to an existing file without overwriting its current data, replace > with the append operator >>: printf "Additional content here.\n" >> formatted_file.txt Using a Text Editor You can also create new files in linux text editors. There is always at least one integrated command-line text editor in your Linux distribution. But you can choose and install a different one according to your preferences, for example, Vim, Nano, or Emacs. Each of them has its own features and advantages. Vim vim, which stands for "Vi IMproved," is a very flexible and adaptable text editor. It is well-known for its modal editing, which allows for distinct modes for various functions like text entry, navigation, and editing. It allows split windows, multiple buffers, syntax highlighting, and a large selection of plugins for extra features. To create a text file using vim, follow the steps below: Open vim, with the desired filename as an argument. "Vim" command is one of the key steps in file creation Press i to switch to Insert mode. Start typing and editing the filename.txt.  To save and exit, press Esc to ensure that command mode is running. Type: wq (write and quit) and press Enter. Simple command to finish your work Nano nano is ideal for short adjustments and straightforward text files because it is lightweight and requires little setup. It provides support for basic text manipulation functions, search and replace, and syntax highlighting. To create a text file using nano, follow the steps below:  Run nano with the desired filename as an argument. It will open a new buffer for editing the file filename.txt. Nano is useful in you want to fix something in your text file Start typing and editing the filename.txt.  To save and exit, press Ctrl + O to write the file, confirm the filename, and then press Ctrl + X to exit Nano. Click "yes" to exit Emacs emacs is a powerful and flexible text editor that supports syntax highlighting, multiple buffers, split windows, and integration with external tools and programming languages. To create a text file using emacs, follow the steps below:  Open emacs, with the desired filename as an argument. Start typing and editing the filename.txt.  "Emacs" is more flexible text editor To save and exit, press Ctrl + X, followed by Ctrl + S to save the file, and then Ctrl + X, followed by Ctrl + C to exit Emacs. Note: If a message states that "VIM command not found", "nano command not found" or "emacs command not found" in Linux, it typically means that the vim, nano or emacs text editor is not installed on the system, or it's not included in the PATH environment variable, which is a list of directories where the operating system looks for executable files. Don't forget to install necessary command in Linux To resolve this, install the text editor first using the command:  apt-get install vim apt-get install nano  apt-get install emacs Gedit An intuitive text editor that supports working with plain text and has syntax highlighting for programming languages. A straightforward graphical interface makes it usable for various tasks, from quick edits to complex document preparation. Open the Gedit Application: Launch Gedit either through the applications menu or by executing the following command in the terminal: gedit example.txt Gedit will create a new file if the specified one does not exist. Input Your Text: Type or paste your desired content into the editor. Save the File: Save your work with Ctrl + S or select File > Save. If creating a new file, specify a filename and a location. Verify: Return to the terminal and confirm the file exists with the ls command or review its content with cat. Linux File Creation Recommendations Ensure you have sufficient permissions to create files in the target directory. If they are insufficient, consider working in a directory where you have full rights (or elevate privileges with sudo). Check if a file with the identical name is already present before using the > operator, as the command will overwrite existing content. To prevent data loss, opt for the append operator >>. Familiarize yourself with the printf, echo, and text editors like vim or nano. These tools will help you reduce errors when working with files in Linux, as well as boost productivity. Use printf for creating files requiring structured content, such as configuration files or scripts with precise formatting needs. Choose your server now! Conclusion Now you have acquainted yourself with the fundamental skill of creating a file in Linux using the terminal! Using the Linux command line, several fast and efficient methods exist to create and manage text files. Apply several techniques to meet a different requirement using the touch, echo, cat, printf commands, or text editors like vim, nano, gedit, or emacs. Users can select the method that sufficiently meets their requirements, such as creating empty files, appending text, or significantly modifying material. In summary, any of these methods enable Linux users to easily and quickly handle text files straight from the command line. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) How do I create an empty text file in Linux?  The standard command is touch. Simply run: touch filename.txt This creates a blank file immediately. How do I create a file and add content at the same time?  You can use the echo command with the redirection operator (>). echo "Hello World" > filename.txt This creates the file and puts "Hello World" inside it. How do I create and open a file for editing?  Use a terminal text editor like nano or vi. When you run: nano filename.txt Linux will open a blank editor screen. Once you type your text and save (Ctrl+O in nano), the file is created on your disk. What is the fastest way to create a file?  The redirection symbol alone is the quickest method for creating an empty file:> filename.txt This tells the shell to redirect "nothing" into a new file, creating it instantly. How do I create a large file for testing?  Use the fallocate command. For example, to create a 1GB file instantly:fallocate -l 1G bigfile.img How do I view the content of a text file?  Use the cat command to print the text to your terminal: cat filename.txtFor longer files, use less filename.txt to scroll through pages.
21 January 2026 · 10 min to read

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