2.1.2 Terminal vs Console vs SSH
The terms terminal, console, and SSH are often used interchangeably, but they describe different concepts.
Understanding the differences helps clarify how and where commands are executed.
Terminal
A terminal is a software application that allows users to interact with the shell.
Key characteristics:
- Runs inside a graphical environment
- Provides a window for command-line input
- Common on desktop systems
Most users interact with Linux through a terminal emulator.
Console
The console refers to a direct system interface, traditionally connected to the machine itself.
Historically:
- It was a physical screen and keyboard
- Used for system administration and recovery
Today, the console concept still exists, especially during system startup or low-level troubleshooting.
SSH
SSH (Secure Shell) is a protocol for accessing a remote system securely over a network.
SSH allows users to:
- Log into remote Linux systems
- Execute commands remotely
- Manage servers without physical access
SSH is commonly used in server and cloud environments.
Local vs Remote Interaction
- Terminal and console access are typically local
- SSH access is remote
- The commands and shell behavior remain largely the same
📌 Key Idea:
The difference lies in how you connect, not what you can do once connected.