Jethost’s Help Center


How to open terminal in Linux?

Navigating the Linux operating system like a pro requires a solid understanding of the terminal. Whether you’re a developer, a system administrator, or just a curious user, knowing how to open terminal in Linux is a fundamental skill. In this tutorial, we’ll guide you through the various methods of accessing the terminal, ensuring you can start executing commands with confidence.

What is a Terminal?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s clarify what a terminal is. A terminal, also known as a command line or a shell, is a text-based interface that allows users to interact with the computer’s operating system. Through the terminal, you can run commands, install software, and manage files without the need for a graphical user interface (GUI).

How to Open Terminal in Linux

1. Using Keyboard Shortcuts

The quickest way to open terminal in Linux is by using a keyboard shortcut. Most Linux distributions allow you to access the terminal by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T. This command is nearly universal and should work on Ubuntu, Fedora, and many other distributions.

2. Through the GUI

If you prefer using the GUI (Graphic User Interface), you can open the terminal through the applications menu:

  • Click on the applications menu or activities overview, depending on your Linux distribution.
  • Type “terminal” in the search bar.
  • Click on the terminal application icon to launch it.

3. Right-Click on the Desktop

Some Linux distributions offer the option to open a terminal directly from the desktop:

  • Right-click on the desktop.
  • Look for an option that says “Open Terminal,” “Open in Terminal,” or similar.
  • Click on it to launch the terminal window.

4. Using the Run Command Dialog

Another method to open terminal in Linux is through the run command dialog:

  • Press Alt + F2 to open the run command dialog.
  • Type “gnome-terminal” or “xterm” (depending on your default terminal emulator) and press Enter.

5. Accessing Terminal from the File Manager

For users who are working with files and require immediate access to the terminal:

  • Open your file manager.
  • Navigate to the desired directory.
  • Right-click within the directory.
  • Select “Open in Terminal” or a similar option to launch the terminal in that specific directory.

New Hosting Plan with 80% OFF

Upgrade your website’s home without the heavy bill. Get new hosting plan with a huge 80% discount and enjoy reliable performance, free SSH access, and full Linux terminal support. Run commands, manage files, and configure your hosting directly. Perfect for developers, power users, or anyone who prefers the control of a Linux environment.

Before You Go

Mastering how to open terminal in Linux is just the beginning of your journey into the powerful world of command-line computing. With this guide, you can access the terminal with ease and start exploring the vast capabilities at your fingertips.

Ready to become a Linux command line expert? Bookmark this tutorial for quick reference and share it with fellow Linux enthusiasts. For more in-depth guides and tips, subscribe to our newsletter and stay ahead in the world of Linux computing.

Master the Linux commands with examples on a SSH Shared Hosting account with 80% OFF the regular price now!

Payment Methods

Visa MasterCard American Express GooglePay ApplePay