How to Add and Delete Users on Ubuntu 24.04

Ubuntu 24.04 introduces enhanced security and usability improvements, making user management an essential task for system administrators. Whether you’re setting up a multi-user environment or maintaining system security, understanding how to add and delete users efficiently is crucial.

This guide will walk you through the process of adding and removing users on Ubuntu 24.04 using both the command line and GUI methods.

Adding a User in Ubuntu 24.04

Method 1: Using the Command Line

The terminal provides a powerful and quick way to manage users.

1. Adding a New User

To add a new user, use the adduser command, which is an interactive and user-friendly option:

sudo adduser <username>

Replace <username> with the desired username. This command will prompt you to set a password and enter additional user details.

Alternatively, you can use the useradd command, but it requires manual password setup:

sudo useradd -m -s /bin/bash <username>
sudo passwd <username>

Here:

• -m creates the user’s home directory.
• -s /bin/bash sets Bash as the default shell.

2. Granting Administrative (sudo) Privileges

If the new user needs administrator rights, add them to the sudo group:

sudo usermod -aG sudo <username>

Now, <username> can run administrative commands using sudo.

Method 2: Using the GUI

If you prefer a graphical approach:

1. Open Settings.
2. Navigate to Users.
3. Click Unlock (enter your password if required).
4. Click Add User.
5. Enter the username, set a password, and select either Standard or Administrator privileges.
6. Click Add to create the user.

Deleting a User in Ubuntu 24.04

Method 1: Using the Command Line

1. Removing a User Without Deleting Home Directory

Use:

sudo deluser <username>

This removes the user but keeps their home directory and personal files intact.

2. Removing a User and Deleting Home Directory

For a complete removal:

sudo deluser --remove-home <username>

This command deletes both the user and their home directory.

3. Removing a User and Their Files Completely

To remove all files owned by the user across the system:

sudo deluser --remove-home <username>
sudo rm -rf /var/mail/<username>

This ensures all remnants are removed.

Method 2: Using the GUI

1. Open Settings > Users.
2. Select the user you want to delete.
3. Click Remove User and choose whether to keep or delete their home directory.
4. Confirm the action.

Best Practices

• Always double-check usernames before deleting to prevent accidental data loss.
• Grant sudo privileges only to trusted users.
• Regularly audit and remove unnecessary user accounts to maintain security.

By following these steps, you can efficiently manage user accounts on Ubuntu 24.04, ensuring a secure and organized system.

FAQ

1. How do I check existing users on Ubuntu?
Run the following command to list all users:

cut -d: -f1 /etc/passwd

2. Can I change a user’s password?
Yes, use the command:

sudo passwd <username>

3. How do I remove a user from the sudo group?
Run:

sudo deluser <username> sudo

4. Can I disable a user without deleting their account?
Yes, you can lock the account using:

sudo passwd -l <username>

To unlock, use:

sudo passwd -u <username>

5. How do I add a user without a home directory?
Use:

sudo useradd -M <username>

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Anastasios Antoniadis

Editor-in-Chief at Beyond Tech Now

Anastasios Antoniadis is the Editor in Chief of Beyond Tech Now, where he leads a diverse team of writers and analysts delivering industry-breaking news, hands-on product reviews, and thoughtful commentary on emerging technologies. With over a decade of experience in digital media, John has a proven track record of shaping editorial vision and driving engagement through high-quality, reader-focused content. He is particularly passionate about the intersection of AI, cybersecurity, and consumer electronics—striving to make complex tech topics accessible to a global audience. When he’s not collaborating with writers or liaising with tech leaders, Anastasios can be found experimenting with the latest gadgets or sharing insights at tech conferences around the world.

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