chvt command in Linux with examples Last Updated : 23 Sep, 2024 Comments Improve Suggest changes Like Article Like Report 'chvt' command in Linux systems is used to switch between the different TTY (TeleTYpewriter) terminals available. These are essentially Virtual Terminals, which are toggled when the keys "Ctrl + Alt + FunKey(1-6)" are pressed. There are usually 6 TTY terminals, and the 'chvt' command is used to switch between these terminals, without the use of function keys.Here, we’ll explore the 'chvt' command, its syntax, how to use it, and some additional features to enhance your understanding. Syntax:chvt Nchvt with different N: This command takes an integer value for N, ranging from 1 to 6 (Since only 6 TTYs are present in the Linux OS). When an integer which is out of this range is specified, a blank screen pops up. To exit this screen, Alt + FunKey(7) needs to be pressed. Note: The command "fbcat" which is used in the TTY terminals, serves to capture the screen of TTY terminals. chvt command Examples in LinuxLet us look at some of the examples of the chvt command in Linux:Example 1: Switch to TTY1If you want to switch to the first TTY terminal (TTY1), use the following command:sudo chvt 1This will switch the terminal to TTY1, which is often the default terminal in many Linux distributions.Example 2: Switch to TTY3To switch to the third TTY terminal (TTY3), you would use the command:sudo chvt 3This will take you directly to TTY3 without the need to press any function keys.What Happens if You Enter an Invalid TTY Number?If you specify a number outside the range of 1 to 6, such as 'chvt 7' or 'chvt 8', the screen will typically go blank or become unresponsive. In such a scenario, you can easily exit the blank screen by pressing Alt + F7, which will return you to the graphical user interface (GUI) or graphical login screen.ConclusionThe chvt command is an efficient way to switch between TTY terminals in Linux systems, especially for users who need to navigate between different virtual terminals programmatically or via the command line. Whether you are administering a headless server, troubleshooting a frozen GUI, or automating tasks, chvt can simplify your workflow. Comment More infoAdvertise with us M MukkeshMckenzie Follow Improve Article Tags : Linux-Unix linux-command Linux-misc-commands Similar Reads How to Change the Directory in Linux | cd Command Navigating the Linux file system is like exploring a vast library; each directory (folder) holds its own collection of files and subdirectories, and knowing how to move between them efficiently is the first step to mastering the command line. 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