su user. How to go to home dir

When you're using the su command in Linux to switch users, navigating to the home directory of the new user can be a bit nuanced. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to effectively go to the home directory after switching users with the su command.

Understanding the su Command

The su command stands for "substitute user" or "switch user." This command allows you to change the current user context within the command line. For example, executing su user gives you access to the specified user's permissions and environment.

Two Variations of su

1. Basic Usage:

   • When you use su user, it switches to that user but does not change the current working directory. Thus, you may remain in the directory you started in.
   • Command: su user

2. Login Shell Mode:

   • When you use su - user (or su -), it initiates a login shell for the user, which includes loading their environment variables and switching to their home directory.
   • Command: su - user

Navigating to Home Directory

After switching to another user, you should follow these steps to navigate to their home directory:

• Using su - Command:

  • This command works effectively because it simulates a fresh login. Thus, not only does it switch to the user, but it also navigates to their home directory immediately.
  • Example:

    su - user
    

  • After running this, you will be in the home directory of user (typically /home/user).

• If Already Using su user:

  • If you have already switched to the user using su user and want to go to their home directory, you can simply execute the cd command:

    cd ~
    

  • The tilde (~) represents the current user's home directory in Linux.

Additional Tips

• Feel free to check your current directory: After navigating, you can use the pwd command to confirm your position:

  pwd
  

• Accessing Other Users' Home Directories: If you need to access another user’s home directory without switching to them, you can specify it directly:

  cd /home/otheruser
  

Conclusion

Navigating to a user's home directory in Linux after switching users using the su command is simple once you understand the distinction between a normal shell switch and a login shell. By using su - user or the cd ~ command, you can quickly access the desired directory without confusion. Understanding these commands enhances navigation efficiency and helps optimize your command line interactions within Linux environments.

For more detailed examples and explanations of the su command and its variations, check out resources like phoenixNAP and LinuxConfig.