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Using systemctl to Configure systemd

Knowing how to use `systemctl` is one of the most important and foundational skills to have when managing systemd-based systems. The `systemctl` utility is used for so many tasks and contains such a large amount of subcommands that it can be slightly intimidating at first for those familiar with individual commands for most management tasks. In this lab, we'll get you used to using `systemctl` to view systemd's environment, settings, view status on services, show and set parameters that affect service function, and understand what happens when you set settings, both from a `systemd` daemon perspective, as well as drop-in directories and additional configuration add-ins. You'll come out of this lab feeling more confident with `systemctl` than ever and ready to start managing your systemd-based systems right away!

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Labs

Path Info

Level
Clock icon Beginner
Duration
Clock icon 15m
Last updated
Clock icon Aug 29, 2025

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Table of Contents

  1. Challenge

    Investigate the systemd Environment and Service Status

    1. Show the systemd environment.
    2. View service status.
    3. Become familiar with the systemd directory contents and query and display service parameters.
  2. Challenge

    Install a systemd-Managed Service and Change Its Parameters

    1. Install CUPS
    2. View its status and start and stop the service
    3. Change a service parameter and find out what changed as a result
  3. Challenge

    Reverse a Parameter Change to a Service

    1. You'll stop the service, remove the setting, change directory, and override files, reload systemd's daemon and restart the service, and confirm it is back to factory settings.

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What's a lab?

Hands-on Labs are real environments created by industry experts to help you learn. These environments help you gain knowledge and experience, practice without compromising your system, test without risk, destroy without fear, and let you learn from your mistakes. Hands-on Labs: practice your skills before delivering in the real world.

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