less — Basic UsageIT technician command center
Linux · Linux and Bash

less — Basic Usage

Use less for a standard administrative task.

Copy-ready commandless — Basic Usage
less /var/log/syslog

Requirements and permissions

Requirements
Linux with the referenced utility installed
Permissions
Use sudo or root only when required
Last reviewed
2026-07-31

Examples

Basic Usage

Use less for a standard administrative task.

less /var/log/syslog

Original command

View a text file interactively.

less /var/log/syslog

Common errors

Command not found

Confirm Linux with the referenced utility installed is installed and available in your current shell.