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env command in Linux with Examples

Last Updated : 03 Sep, 2024
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The ‘env’ command in Linux is a versatile tool used to manage environment variables. It can print all the current environment variables, set new ones, or run a command within a custom environment. Additionally, ‘env’ is commonly used in shell scripts to launch the correct interpreter, ensuring the script runs with the intended environment settings.

Here, we will learn more about ‘env’ command in Linux along with some practical examples.

What Does the env Command Do?

The primary function of the ‘env’ command is to display environment variables or run commands within a modified environment. Environment variables are dynamic values that affect the processes or programs running on a system, such as ‘PATH’, ‘HOME’, and ‘USER’. By using ‘env’, you can manipulate these variables to customize the behavior of your commands and scripts.

Syntax:

env [OPTION]... [-][NAME=VALUE]... [COMMAND [ARG]...]
  • OPTIONS: Flags to modify the behavior of the ‘env’ command.
  • NAME=VALUE: Defines environment variables and their values.
  • COMMAND [ARG]: Specifies the command to be executed with the modified environment.

Options of the ‘env’ command

Here are some common ways to use the ‘env’ command along with practical examples:

1. Without any argument

Print out a list of all environment variables.

EXAMPLE:

env

2. ‘-i’ or ‘–ignore-environment’ or ‘only -‘

Runs a command with an empty environment

SYNTAX:

$ env -i your_command

Note: This completely clear out the environment, but it does not prevent your_command setting new variables.

EXAMPLE:

To clear the environment (creating a new environment without any existing environment variables) for a new shell

env_1

In this, it clears all the environment variable and then new shell sets the environment variable PWD. Thus in this new shell when we execute env, we only see one environment variable PWD.

3. ‘-u’ or ‘–unset’

Remove variable from the environment

SYNTAX:

$ env -u variable_name

EXAMPLE:

Removing XDG_VTNR environment variable which you can see in the image above in the output of just ‘env‘.

env_2

4. ‘-0’ or ‘–null’

End each output line with NULL, not newline

SYNTAX:

$ env -0

EXAMPLE:

env_5

5. ‘–version’

Display version information and exit.

SYNTAX:

$ env --version

EXAMPLE:

env_3

6. ‘–help’

Display a help message and exit.

SYNTAX:

$ env --help

EXAMPLE:

env_4

Conclusion

The ‘env’ command in Linux is an essential tool for managing environment variables and controlling the behavior of commands and scripts. Mastering ‘env’ can significantly enhance your efficiency and control over your Linux environment. By familiarizing yourself with its options and practical uses, you can leverage ‘env’ to customize your workflow and ensure your scripts and commands run as intended.

env command in Linux – FAQs

What is the ‘env’ command used for in Linux?

The ‘env’ command is used to print environment variables, set new ones, or run commands in a modified environment. It’s commonly used in scripts to ensure the correct interpreter is used.

How can I run a command with an empty environment using ‘env’?

To run a command without any environment variables, use the ‘-i’ option:

env -i your_command

This clears the environment before executing the command.

Can I remove specific environment variables before running a command?

Yes, use the ‘-u’ option followed by the variable name:

env -u VARIABLE_NAME your_command

This removes the specified variable from the environment for the command.


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