$ps
Report a snapshot of currently running system processes.
ps [OPTIONS]Try `ps` Live in Interactive Sandbox
Zero-install client simulation with real-time feedback.
Overview & How ps Works
`ps` (Process Status) provides detailed information about active processes running on your Linux system, including Process ID (PID), CPU usage, Memory utilization, Terminal (TTY), runtime, and the command string.
Common Flags & Command Options
| Flag / Option | Description |
|---|---|
| aux | Display all running processes for all users in BSD syntax with CPU/MEM percentages. |
| -ef | Standard system V syntax listing all processes with parent PID (PPID). |
| -u [user] | Filter processes owned by a specific username. |
Practical Real-World Examples
ps auxOutputs complete process table snapshot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ps and top?
`ps` gives a single static snapshot of processes at that exact moment, whereas `top` is an interactive real-time dashboard that continually refreshes.
Related Linux Commands
Display real-time Linux processes and system resource utilization.
Interactive process viewer with colorful CPU meters and mouse support.
Send termination or control signals to processes by PID.
Print the effective username associated with the current shell session.
Display or set system date and time.
Print operating system name and kernel architecture.