Log off existing sessions in Linux

Note: You have to be root to end other users' sessions.

1. Check current user sessions by using the w command:

    ~]# w
    17:49:20 up 198 days,  5:23,  3 users,  load average: 0.00, 0.01, 0.05
    USER     TTY      FROM             LOGIN@   IDLE   JCPU   PCPU WHAT
    root     tty1                      16:48   59:28   0.08s  0.08s -bash
    root     pts/0    ord.secure-acces 16:50    0.00s  0.10s  0.02s w
    james    pts/1    ord.secure-acces 17:49    5.00s  0.03s  0.03s -bash
   

2. Log off a user:

    ~]# pkill -KILL -u james
   

3. Confirm:

    ~]# w
    17:50:07 up 198 days,  5:24,  2 users,  load average: 0.00, 0.01, 0.05
    USER     TTY      FROM             LOGIN@   IDLE   JCPU   PCPU WHAT
    root     tty1                      16:48    1:00m  0.08s  0.08s -bash
    root     pts/0    ord.secure-acces 16:50    7.00s  0.10s  0.01s w