Master Linux Init: Switch Runlevels, Shut Down, Reboot, and More
This guide explains how to use the Linux init command to change system runlevels, detailing each level’s purpose, the command syntax, and practical examples for shutting down, entering single‑user mode, switching to full multi‑user mode, launching the graphical interface, and rebooting the machine.
init: Switch System Runlevels
Function Description:
The init command can change the system runlevel. Linux defines seven runlevels; init 0 shuts down the system, and init 6 reboots it.
Command Syntax:
init [options]Option Meanings:
The meanings of the options are listed below:
0 – shutdown
1 – single‑user mode
2 – multi‑user mode
3 – full multi‑user mode
5 – graphical interface
6 – reboot
Reference Examples:
Example 1 – Shut down the system
[root@linuxcool ~]# init 0Example 2 – Switch to single‑user mode
[root@linuxcool ~]# init 1Example 3 – Switch to full multi‑user mode
[root@linuxcool ~]# init 3Example 4 – Reboot the system
[root@linuxcool ~]# init 6Signed-in readers can open the original source through BestHub's protected redirect.
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