4.3BSD - /usr/man/cat1/su.0

SU(1)                                                                    SU(1)


NAME
       su - substitute user id temporarily

SYNOPSIS
       su [ -f ] [ - ] [ userid ]

DESCRIPTION
       Su  demands  the  password of the specified userid, and if it is given,
       changes to that userid and invokes the Shell sh(1)  or  csh(1)  without
       changing  the  current  directory.   The  user environment is unchanged
       except for HOME and SHELL, which are taken from the password  file  for
       the  user being substituted (see environ(7)).  The new user ID stays in
       force until the Shell exits.

       If no userid is specified, ‘‘root’’ is  assumed.   Only  users  in  the
       ‘‘wheel’’  group (group 0) can su to ‘‘root’’, even with the root pass‐
       word.  To remind the super-user of his responsibilities, the Shell sub‐
       stitutes ‘#’ for its usual prompt.

       The -f option prevents csh(1) from executing the .cshrc file; thus mak‐
       ing su start up faster.

       The - option simulates a full login.

SEE ALSO
       sh(1), csh(1)


3rd Berkeley Distribution         May 5, 1986                            SU(1)