On a Linux host, which of the following files can be viewed to count all user names and login methods in the current system?

Question

Options

• A/etc/passwd
• B/etc/profile
• C/etc/shadow
• D/etc/rc.local

• A
  81% (21)
• B
  12% (3)
• C
  4% (1)
• D
  4% (1)

Explanation

/etc/passwd is the correct answer because it stores one entry per user account on the system, with fields for username, UID, GID, home directory, and default shell - making it the definitive source for counting all usernames and their configured login shells (login method). /etc/shadow (C) stores hashed passwords and account expiry info but is not the primary source for enumerating users or login methods. /etc/profile (B) is a shell initialization script that runs at login and contains environment variable settings, not user account data. /etc/rc.local (D) is a legacy startup script for running commands at boot and has nothing to do with user accounts.

Memory tip: Think of /etc/passwd as the "guest list" - every user who can walk through the door is listed there, along with how they get in (their shell).

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