# Viewing Processes — Linux

Source: https://www.geekswithgeeks.com/en/linux/linux-viewing-processes

> ps and top show what's running.

## Every running program is a process

Each running program gets a unique **PID** (process ID). The kernel tracks CPU time, memory, and state for every process.

## ps aux — a snapshot

`ps aux` lists all running processes with their PID, CPU%, memory%, and command.

```bash
ps aux | head -3
```

Output:

```
USER  PID %CPU %MEM COMMAND
root    1  0.0  0.1 /sbin/init
alice 842  0.2  1.3 nginx
```

## top — a live view

`top` refreshes continuously, showing the busiest processes first. Press `q` to exit.

```bash
top
```