The Reboot Command

Summary

The reboot command can be used to reboot a computer or remote server. It will notify logged-in users about the reboot. The command has several options which are described below.

Basic command structure

For all descriptions below, the dollar sign indicates a BASH command prompt.

$ reboot [options]

Possible Flags

-f

• The -f flag will force an immediate reboot without running normal shutdown procedures. This is best used only when absolutely necessary as it can cause significant issues.

--no-wall

• The --no-wall flag will reboot without notifying logged-in users.

Output

• Standard output The reboot command usually does not have an output, as the result of the command should be the system beginning its reboot process. When rebooting a remote server, you will receive a message that the connection to the server has been closed. If “operation not permitted” is returned, you need sudo access. Make sure to have your sudo password on hand.
• Note Rebooting your remote server will kick you and any other logged-in users off the server while it reboots. This process usually takes a few minutes, after which you will need to connect again.

Examples

• If you want to quickly reboot your server, run $ sudo reboot. You generally need sudo permissions to run reboot.
• To force an immediate reboot, run $ sudo reboot -f. This command is usually a last resort.

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