The
su(short for "substitute user" or "switch user") command allows you to switch the current user identity to another user account within a terminal session. By default, runningsuwithout any arguments attempts to switch to the root user, prompting for the root account’s password.When used with a username (e.g.,
su john), it opens a new shell as that specific user.
Thesucommand is commonly used for:
- Gaining superuser (root) access to perform administrative tasks
- Switching between user accounts without logging out
- Running commands in another user’s environment
- For full login environment (similar to logging in as the user), use:
su - usernameThis feature is available on Artica v4.50 Service Pack 3 or Artica v4.50 Service Pack 2 Hotfix 20250513-02
¶ Allow su to a specific user
- On the left menu go to
Your system > System users - Search your user and open it's identity.
- Click on the field Allow “Switch Users” to enable or disable the privilege.
