Linux is managed by groups and users. User accounts can be created/edited/deleted. Information about user accounts is stored in /etc/passwd.
Original Korean article: Linux user management useradd usermod userdel
Check user list
sudo cat /etc/passwd
Add user and register password
You can register a user with the adduser command.
- -m or –create-home: Add the new user’s home directory. -s or –shell: The shell can be set differently for each user. -u or –uid: Specifies a specific user ID (UID). -c or –comment : GECOS field
sudo adduser [example]
User default settings can be checked in /etc/defaults/useradd.
sudo cat /etc/default/useradd

- Register the user’s password with the passwd [user name] command. Existing users can change their password.
sudo passwd [example]

Edit user information
For existing user accounts, you can change the user name, change the shell, or lock or unlock the account.
- -c or –comment: Modify GECOS field -d or –home: Modify home directory information -e or –expiredate: Set account expiration -l (lowercase L) or –login: Modify username
- -L or –lock: Lock user account
- -U or –unlock : Unlock user
sudo usermod [option] [example]
Delete user
Unnecessary user accounts can be deleted with the userdel command.
- -f or –force: Delete account even when user is logged in -r or –remove: Delete account including mail and home directory
sudo userdel [example]
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FAQ
What is this article about?
This article is an English translation and global-reader adaptation of the Korean post “Linux user management useradd usermod userdel.” It preserves the original article’s main explanation, examples, and practical context.
Why is it translated into English?
The English version helps global readers access Thinknote articles through English search keywords while keeping the Korean source available as the original reference.
Where can I read the original Korean version?
You can read the original Korean article here: https://www.thinknote.co.kr/linux-user-management-useradd-usermod-userdel/
Practical Notes for Global Readers
This English draft keeps the original Korean article as its source while adding a short practical reading guide for international readers who may not share the same local context. The main topic is Linux user management useradd usermod userdel.
How to Use This Guide
Read the steps in order first, then adapt names, paths, package versions, policy details, or local service conditions to your own environment. Older server and software articles may describe a specific Ubuntu, CentOS, PHP, Nginx, or Linux administration context, so verify current package names before applying commands on a production system.
Before You Apply the Steps
Back up configuration files, confirm your server access method, and test changes in a safe environment whenever possible. If the article discusses policy, travel, finance, or market information, use it as contextual analysis and check the latest official source before making a final decision.
Why This Translation Exists
The purpose of this English version is to make Thinknote’s Korean archive accessible to global search readers while preserving the original article’s practical intent and source link.