What is the purpose of the sudo command?

The purpose of the sudo command is to execute commands as a superuser or as another specified user. This command stands out because it allows a permitted user to execute a command as the superuser or another user, as defined by the security policy set in the system’s configuration.

By using sudo, users can perform administrative tasks that typically require elevated privileges without having to log in as the root user, thereby enhancing security. Instead of accessing the root account directly, which can expose the entire system to risks, sudo allows for granular control of what users can and cannot do with elevated permissions. Additionally, it logs all commands that are executed, providing an audit trail for system administration.

This capability is essential in maintaining a secure and controlled environment within a multi-user system, allowing for temporary elevation of privileges on a per-command basis rather than granting full access, which can mitigate the risk of accidental or malicious damage.