Which utility allows you to switch to the root user?

Prepare for the LPI Linux Essentials Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get exam-ready!

The utility that allows you to switch to the root user is su, which stands for "substitute user". When you execute su in the terminal, it prompts you for the password of the root user; once the correct password is provided, you gain access to the root user's environment. This means that you can perform administrative tasks with the elevated privileges that the root user possesses.

In contrast, sudo (short for "superuser do") is used to execute a command with root privileges without needing to switch to the root user entirely. While sudo allows for more granular control over who can execute what commands as root, su is specifically designed for switching users, particularly to the root account.

chown is a command that changes the ownership of files and directories; it is not related to switching users. sh refers to the shell command interpreter and does not permit user switching in the same way that su does. The distinction between these utilities highlights their specific functions within the Linux environment.

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