What does the 'ps' command do in Linux?

The 'ps' command in Linux is used to display the currently running processes on the system. When executed, it provides a snapshot of the active processes, including details such as the process ID (PID), the current state of the process, the CPU and memory usage, and the command that initiated the process. This information is vital for monitoring system performance and managing processes effectively, allowing users to identify resource-intensive tasks or any potential issues.

Understanding the output of the 'ps' command is crucial for system administrators and users who need to troubleshoot or manage system resources efficiently. The command can also be used with various options to filter the output, format the information, or display processes for specific users or sessions, enhancing its versatility in process management.