logout

Exit a login shell

$ logout

$ logout [exit_code]

logout

The logout command terminates a user's current login session.
It typically closes the terminal window or disconnects the network connection associated with the session. When invoked, logout usually performs necessary cleanup actions such as terminating user processes, removing temporary files, and updating system accounting information.
The exact behavior of logout can depend on the shell and the system configuration. It often executes commands defined in shell startup files (e.g., .bash_logout, .zlogout) to ensure proper session termination. If the current shell is a login shell, logout terminates it. If it's a subshell, it simply exits the subshell. In GUI environments, logout may trigger the display manager to present the login screen again. Properly ending a session helps maintain system security and resource management.

The behavior of logout can vary depending on the shell being used. Some shells might not support it directly, or might have custom implementations.

Invoking logout is generally the preferred method for ending a shell session, as it ensures that all cleanup routines are executed. Simply closing the terminal window might not always guarantee a clean exit, potentially leaving orphaned processes running. If the shell is not a login shell, using exit will provide similar functionality.

The logout command has been a standard part of Unix-like operating systems since their early days. It provides a simple way for users to end their sessions and return to a login prompt. Its functionality has remained relatively consistent over time, although specific implementations might differ slightly across different shells and systems.

exit(1), shutdown(8), reboot(8)