System and processes

The poweroff command

Powers off the machine immediately, in an orderly way.

Syntax

sudo poweroff

Copy-ready examples

$ sudo poweroffPower off

You can try them in the browser terminal: it does not touch your computer.

Typical mistakes

  • On some machines you must hold the button afterwards, but the system is already off.

Related commands

FAQ

Is it the same as halt?

halt stops the CPU but may leave the power; poweroff cuts it completely.

Learn to actually use it

The basic Linux course takes you from zero to console fluency with 24 self-grading lessons.

Start the free course