# How to use the SSH ps command

> Canonical: https://jethost.com/kb/how-to-use-the-ssh-ps-command/ · Last modified: 2026-08-20T06:49:58+00:00

The SSH `ps` (process status) command displays the current processes running on your [Linux hosting](https://jethost.com/web-hosting/). In particular, it's useful for monitoring what programs are active, how much resources they use, and which users own them. Furthermore, ps helps you identify processes that load or slow your machine - making it essential for troubleshooting, spotting abuse, or investigating possible DDoS activity.

## View all running processes

To list every process on the system:

```
ps -A
```

This shows a concise list of all processes. On some systems, `ps aux` or `ps -e` gives similar results. The output includes process IDs (PIDs), terminal, time, and command name.

## View full process details

To see more information including the user, parent process, and full command line:

```
ps -ef
```

The `-e` selects all processes; `-f` gives a full-format listing. Useful when you need to see the exact arguments passed to a program or trace parent-child relationships.

## View all processes for every user

To list processes for all users with extra details and a tree-like view:

```
ps -auxf
```

This combines `-a` (all users), `-u` (user-oriented format with CPU and memory), and `-f` (full format). The `-f` at the end can show a forest-style hierarchy on some systems. Note: on BSD-style systems use `ps aux` without the leading dash.

## Filter processes with grep

The SSH ps command is best used with `grep` to filter and search for specific processes. This makes it easier to find a single program among many:

```
ps -ef | grep nginx
```

Replace "nginx" with any process name - apache, php, mysql, or your application. You can also search by user: `ps -ef | grep username`. See our guide on the [SSH grep command](https://jethost.com/kb/how-to-use-the-ssh-grep-command/) for more filtering options.

## Common use cases

Typical uses for SSH `ps` command on a [Linux hosting](https://jethost.com/web-hosting/) account:

- Monitoring server performance and identifying processes that consume CPU or memory
- Finding and stopping runaway or abusive processes
- Investigating possible DDoS attacks or unusual traffic patterns
- Troubleshooting issues with web servers, PHP, or database applications
- Checking which user or script started a particular process

To stop a process once you have its PID, use the kill command. For real-time monitoring, `top` or `htop` provide a live view that updates automatically.

## Need more help?

Explore more SSH and hosting guides in our [knowledgebase](https://jethost.com/help/). JetHost [web hosting](https://jethost.com/web-hosting/) includes SSH access for managing your server and monitoring processes directly.