$top
Display real-time Linux processes and system resource utilization.
top [OPTIONS]Try `top` Live in Interactive Sandbox
Zero-install client simulation with real-time feedback.
Overview & How top Works
`top` is the built-in dynamic process viewer for Unix systems. It displays real-time CPU load averages, memory/swap usage, task states, and a continuously updated list of top resource-consuming processes sorted by CPU or RAM.
Common Flags & Command Options
| Flag / Option | Description |
|---|---|
| -b | Batch mode for sending output to files or scripts. |
| -n [iter] | Exit after the specified number of refresh iterations. |
| -u [user] | Monitor only processes owned by the specified user. |
Practical Real-World Examples
Runs top and outputs system load statistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you exit top in the terminal?
Press `q` on your keyboard to quit the interactive top interface.
Related Linux Commands
Report a snapshot of currently running system processes.
Interactive process viewer with colorful CPU meters and mouse support.
Send termination or control signals to processes by PID.
Display total amount of free and used physical memory and swap.
Print the effective username associated with the current shell session.
Display or set system date and time.