macOS is the operating system that powers all variants of Apple’s Macs. It is considered the best operating system by millions of people around the globe for numerous reasons. For starters, it offers top-tier security, which assures users of a safe and secure experience. Besides this, it packs numerous native apps and functionalities that allow users to perform almost every type of task without needing a third-party application. One such in-built utility is Terminal.
In this article, we will take a closer look at Terminal and highlight how macOS users can utilize it efficiently. Let us get started:
What is Terminal?
Terminal is the native macOS utility that facilitates users to interact with their Mac via the command line interface or CLI. The powerful in-built utility is generally used by network administrators and users with advanced technical knowledge to initiate or execute specific actions, most of which cannot be done using the operating system’s GUI (Graphical User Interface).
To utilize the powerful tool to the best of its abilities, individuals must be well-versed in commands. For example, if an individual wishes to move a specific file on their Mac from one folder to another, they would need to enter the appropriate command to get the job done seamlessly.
When it comes to performance, Terminal performs exceptionally well in most cases, allowing users to perform tasks without hassle. However, there are instances when the utility exhibits issues. One of the most common ones is the “Zsh: Permission denied” error. Fortunately, like for all other issues, there are multiple fixes for this error too. Users can fix it by checking and modifying file permissions, changing the directory ownership, etc. To know more about potential fixes, visit https://setapp.com/how-to/zsh-permissions-denied-error.
How to Access Terminal?
Any macOS user who wishes to access the Terminal app on their Mac can easily do the job by following a few steps. To do so, users need to search for the app in the Spotlight search bar. Once the name appears on the search, users need to click on it. Doing so will open the app featuring a pitch-black background. Once they see their Mac username on the screen, followed by the “$” symbol, users can start using the application to perform the desired activities by inputting the right commands.
Using Terminal to Perform Specific Tasks:
The Terminal utility of macOS is highly capable when it comes to performing computational tasks. Here are some tasks that macOS users can perform using Terminal:
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Download Files
macOS users can use the Terminal utility to download files whenever their Mac’s web browser is malfunctioning. To do so, all the user needs to do is enter two different commands in the Terminal window – one to set the download location of the app to the desired folder and another to start downloading the desired file. To set a specific folder as the download location, individuals need to enter “cd -/Downloads/.” To initiate the download procedure, users need to enter “curl -O {URL of the file}.”
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Reveal the Location of Hidden Files and Folders
There are instances when users forget the location where they hid important files. By using Terminal, users can easily reveal the location of hidden items. To do so, they need to launch Terminal and enter the following command:
“defaults write com.apple.finder AppleShowAllFile -bool TRUE
Killall Finder”
To confirm, press the “Return” key. Doing so will reveal all the files present, including the hidden ones.
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Override Mac’s Sleep Settings
To prevent a Mac from sleeping or its screen from turning off, users generally need to manually navigate to Settings and make adjustments in the “Power” section. This method, despite being useful, takes a lot of time and effort. Users can get the job done efficiently using Terminal. To do so, all they need to do is open the app and input the caffeinate command (caffeinate -u -t [number of seconds]), and press the “Return” key. Doing so will prevent the Mac from sleeping.
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Dull the Icons of Hidden Applications in the Dock
macOS’ Dock is home to multiple applications, including the ones users hide. Users who wish to dim the icons of applications that are hidden or not visible on the desktop can get the job done by entering the following command and pressing the “Return” key:
Defaults write com.apple.Dock showhidden -bool TRUE
Killall Dock”
This trick comes in extra handy when users wish to make their Dock look cleaner or less cluttered.
Final Thoughts:
The Terminal utility of macOS is a powerful native application that benefits macOS users in multiple ways, especially those with a strong hold on commands. It not only facilitates individuals to get complicated tasks done with ease but also helps users save time and effort. Hence, any individual who wishes to work productively on their Mac should check the Terminal utility out.
