How to Open a Linux Terminal


The Linux terminal is a powerful tool for managing files, running applications, and configuring systems. This guide explores multiple methods on how to open a Linux terminal, including using keyboard shortcuts, the Dash button, and command-line inputs, making it easy for beginners and advanced users to get started.

Table of Contents

  • Method 1: Open Terminal Using Keyboard Shortcut
    • Shortcut: Ctrl + Alt + T
  • Method 2: Open Terminal Using the Dash Button
    • Steps for Using the Dash to Open Terminal
  • Method 3: Open Terminal Using a Command
    • Command: gnome-terminal

What is a Terminal?

A terminal is a text-based interface that allows users to interact with the computer’s operating system directly by typing commands. The terminal is commonly used for managing files, running programs, and configuring system settings. The terminal communicates directly with the shell, which is a program that interprets and executes the commands entered by the user.

Key Features of a Terminal
  1. Command Line Interface (CLI): Unlike graphical interfaces, terminals allow users to type commands to execute tasks instead of using a mouse.
  2. Shell Interaction: The terminal interacts with a shell (e.g., Bash, Zsh, Fish), which processes and runs the commands.
  3. Text-Based Output: Commands entered in the terminal usually produce text-based output, which is displayed directly in the terminal window.
  4. Powerful Control: Provides direct control over the operating system, offering powerful features such as scripting, system administration, and automation of tasks.
  5. Cross-Platform Availability: Terminals are available on most operating systems, such as Linux (Terminal), macOS (Terminal), and Windows (Command Prompt or PowerShell).
Common Uses of the Terminal
  1. File Management: Navigate, create, delete, and manipulate files and directories.
  2. Running Programs: Execute applications and scripts directly from the terminal.
  3. System Monitoring: Check system performance, process status, and system logs.
  4. Network Configuration: Set up network interfaces, test network connections, and manage firewalls.
  5. Automation and Scripting: Write and execute shell scripts to automate repetitive tasks.

Methods to Open the Terminal on Linux:

The Linux Terminal, also known as the Shell, serves as a powerful tool for interacting with the operating system. While originally designed as a Linux file browser, it continues to be used for navigating the file system and undoing changes effectively. The first step to leveraging its potential is learning how to open it.

Method 1: Open Terminal Using Keyboard Shortcut

The fastest way to open the Terminal is by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T. This will immediately launch a new Terminal window in GNOME or similar desktop environments.

Shortcut: Ctrl + Alt + T
Method 2: Open Linux Terminal Using the Dash Button

1. Click the Show Applications button located in the bottom-left corner of the screen (or wherever your Dash Bar is located).

Open Linux Terminal Using the Dash Button

2. In the search bar, type Terminal.

3. Select the Terminal Icon from the results or press Enter to launch it.

Method 3: Open Linux Terminal Using a Run Command

1. Press Alt + F2 to bring up the Run Command dialog box.

Open Linux Terminal Using a Run Command

2. Type the following command and press Enter:

gnome-terminal

3. The Terminal will open.

Note- The commands run via the Alt + F2 dialog won’t display detailed output as they would in a regular terminal window.