How to Run Commands as a Non-Login User on Linux Using sudo and su

1. Understanding Non-Login Users

In Linux, non-login users (shell set to /sbin/nologin or /bin/false) are special accounts used to run services without interactive login, improving system security.

2. Using sudo

The sudo command allows authorized users to run commands as another user, including a non-login user.

Steps:

Edit sudoers : Run visudo to open the /etc/sudoers configuration file.

Add rule : Insert a line such as <your_username> ALL=(<non_login_user>) NOPASSWD: ALL to permit password‑less execution as the non‑login user.

Save and exit : Save the changes and quit the editor.

Execute command : Use sudo -u <non_login_user> <command> to run a command as the non‑login user.

3. Using su -s /bin/bash

If sudo is not desired, the su command can start a new shell as another user, even when that user has no login shell.

Steps:

Switch user : Run su -s /bin/bash <non_login_user> to start a Bash session as the non‑login user.

Run commands : Execute any needed commands inside the new shell.

4. Security Considerations

Misconfiguring the sudoers file can create vulnerabilities; always grant only the necessary permissions to trusted users.

5. Conclusion

Linux administrators can use sudo or su -s /bin/bash to run commands as a non‑login user, providing flexibility while requiring careful security management.