pgrep MacOS command

The MacOS pgrep command allows users to search for processes based on criteria and send signals to them. By entering specific options and arguments, users can narrow down their search and target specific processes for actions like termination or suspension. Understanding how to use pgrep effectively can help MacOS users manage their processes more efficiently and troubleshoot issues effectively.

pgrep Syntax:

pgrep [options] pattern

Options:

Option	Description
-a	Show the process name as well as the PID
-f	Match against full argument lists
-l	Show process name with PID
-n	Select only the newest (most recently started) process by the given name
-o	Select only the oldest process by the given name

Parameters:

Parameter	Description
pattern	The pattern to search for in the process list

Caution

Exercise caution when using the pgrep command as it can potentially affect running processes if not used properly.

pgrep bash Examples:

Search for a Process by Name

pgrep Safari

Searches for the process ID of the “Safari” application.

Display Process IDs of Multiple Instances

pgrep -l Terminal

Lists the process IDs of all instances of the “Terminal” application along with their names.

Monitor Processes in Real-Time

watch pgrep Chrome

Continuously monitors the process ID of the “Chrome” application.

Kill a Process by Name

pkill -9 Safari

Terminates all processes with the name “Safari”.

Search for a Process by User

pgrep -u root sshd

Finds the process ID of the “sshd” process running under the “root” user.

Count the Number of Processes

pgrep -c Finder

Counts the total number of instances of the “Finder” process running.

Tip

When using the pgrep command in MacOS, make sure to carefully read through the available options and understand their functionalities to effectively filter and identify processes.

How do I use pgrep in MacOS?

To use the pgrep command in MacOS, execute the following command:

pgrep terminal

What is the purpose of the pgrep command in MacOS?

The pgrep command in MacOS is used to search for processes by name and other attributes.

pgrep -u root

How can I search for a specific user’s processes using pgrep in MacOS?

You can search for processes owned by a specific user by executing the following command:

pgrep -u username

How do I list all processes matching a pattern with pgrep in MacOS?

To list all processes matching a specific pattern using pgrep in MacOS, use the following command:

pgrep -f pattern

Can I use pgrep to search for processes by their full command line in MacOS?

Yes, you can search for processes by their full command line using the -f option with pgrep in MacOS.

pgrep -f "python script.py"

How can I invert the match criteria with pgrep in MacOS?

To invert the match criteria and show processes that do not match the specified pattern, use the -v option with pgrep in MacOS.

pgrep -v process_name

Is there a way to display the process ID and process name using pgrep in MacOS?

Yes, you can display the process ID and process name by using the -l option with pgrep in MacOS.

pgrep -l process_name

How can I restrict the pgrep command to only search for exact process names in MacOS?

To search for exact process names without any partial matches, use the -x option with pgrep in MacOS.

pgrep -x process_name

Applications of the pgrep command

• List all processes with the name “firefox”: pgrep firefox
• List the process IDs of all instances of “python”: pgrep python
• Check if a specific process is running, e.g., a process with ID 1234: pgrep -q 1234