Linux pwconv Command

Linux Command Reference

The Linux pwconv command is used to enable shadow passwords for users.

In Linux, user and group passwords are stored in files named passwd and group respectively, located in the /etc directory. Because the system requires them to function, anyone can read these files, creating a security vulnerability. Shadow passwords move the passwords from these files into the shadow and gshadow files in the /etc directory, which are readable only by the system administrator. At the same time, the original password fields are replaced with the "x" character, effectively enhancing system security.

Syntax

pwconv

Examples

Enable shadow passwords for users

# pwconv 

Linux Command Reference