Using systemctl to Configure systemd

Libraries: If you want this lab, consider one of these libraries.
Cloud

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!

Get started Contact sales

Lab Info

Level

Beginner

Last updated

Sep 20, 2025

Duration

15m

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.
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
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.

About the author

Pluralsight Skills

Pluralsight Skills gives leaders confidence they have the skills needed to execute technology strategy. Technology teams can benchmark expertise across roles, speed up release cycles and build reliable, secure products. By leveraging our expert content, skill assessments and one-of-a-kind analytics, keep up with the pace of change, put the right people on the right projects and boost productivity. It's the most effective path to developing tech skills at scale.

Real skill practice before real-world application

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.

Learn by doing

Engage hands-on with the tools and technologies you’re learning. You pick the skill, we provide the credentials and environment.

Follow your guide

All labs have detailed instructions and objectives, guiding you through the learning process and ensuring you understand every step.

Turn time into mastery

On average, you retain 75% more of your learning if you take time to practice. Hands-on labs set you up for success to make those skills stick.