Locking/Unlocking a User in Linux

Since we are modifying user account settings that have an impact on system security, we must have superuser permissions to lock or unlock user accounts. To grant superuser permission, type the following command:

sudo su

Below are the methods that can help us to lock/unlock a user in Linux:

1. Method 1: Using the “passwd” command
2. Method 2: Using the “usermod” command
3. Method 3: Using the “chage” command

So, let’s discuss each of the methods in detail:

To regulate access and maintain security, Linux/Unix systems must have the ability to lock and unlock user accounts. It offers the adaptability required to handle a range of security and operational scenarios while making sure that only authorized users have access. Some of the reasons why locking and unlocking user accounts is essential for system security are mentioned below.

• Security: A user account can be locked to stop someone from using it without authorization. Access that is not authorized may result in security events like data loss or breaches.
• Account Management: Proper account management may include locking accounts. For instance, to ensure that someone who leaves the company, no longer has access to company resources, the account should be closed. When a new employee wants access, unlocking may be done.
• Temporary Suspension: User access can be temporarily suspended for maintenance or system updates by locking accounts. The accounts can be unlocked after the maintenance is finished.
• Multiple Failed Attempts: Multiple failed login attempts can be detected by a system, and the account can then be immediately locked to prevent brute-force attacks.

In this article we will discuss some of the common methods to lock and unlock user accounts in Linux/Unix-based OS: