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Mohammad Ridowan Sikder
Mohammad Ridowan Sikder

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TMUX: Terminal Multiplexer

TMUX is a powerful tool that allows you to manage multiple terminal sessions within a single window. This guide covers the basics and some customization tips to enhance your terminal experience.

Getting Started

Installation

On Debian-based systems, you can install tmux using:

sudo apt install tmux
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Basic Usage

  1. Start a new session:
   tmux
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  1. The Prefix Key:

    • TMUX uses a prefix key to distinguish its commands from regular terminal input.
    • The default prefix is Ctrl+b. Press this before any TMUX command.
  2. Detach from a session:

    • Press the prefix, then d
  3. List all sessions:

   tmux list-sessions
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  • Or use the shortcut: prefix + s
  1. Attach to a session:
   tmux attach -t [session-name]
   # Shorthand version:
   tmux a -t [session-name]
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  • To attach to the most recent session:

    tmux a

  1. Rename a session:
    • prefix + $

Managing Panes and Windows

Panes

  • Split vertically: prefix + %
  • Split horizontally: prefix + "

  • Navigate panes: prefix + arrow keys

  • Close a pane:

    • Type exit or
    • prefix + x

Windows

  • Create a new window: prefix + c
  • Navigate windows:
    • Previous: prefix + p
    • Next: prefix + n
  • Close a window: prefix + &
  • Rename a window: prefix + ,

Customization

While TMUX works great out of the box, customizing it can improve your workflow and aesthetics.

  1. Create a config file:
   nano ~/.tmux.conf
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  1. Example customizations:
   # Use C-j and C-f as prefix keys
   set-option -g prefix C-j
   set-option -g prefix2 C-f

   # Easier window splitting
   bind-key v split-window -h
   bind-key h split-window -v
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For a quick start with great customizations, check out this popular config: gpakosz/.tmux

Remember, the beauty of TMUX lies in its flexibility. Experiment with different settings to find what works best for you. Happy multiplexing!

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