Common Nginx Commands: Essential Start, Stop, Restart, and Configuration Check for Beginners

This article introduces the core commands for Nginx daily management to help beginners get started quickly. There are two ways to start Nginx: using `nginx` for source code installation, and `sudo systemctl start nginx` for system services installed via yum/apt. Verification can be done by `ps aux | grep nginx` or accessing the test page. For stopping, there are quick stop (`nginx -s stop`, which may interrupt ongoing requests) and graceful stop (`nginx -s quit`, recommended, waiting for current requests to complete). The difference lies in whether the service is interrupted. For restarting, there are two methods: reloading the configuration (`nginx -s reload`, essential after configuration changes without interruption) and full restart (`systemctl restart`, which may cause brief interruption). Configuration checks require first verifying syntax with `nginx -t`, then applying changes with `nginx -s reload`. `nginx -T` can display the complete configuration. Common commands for beginners include start/stop, reload, and syntax checking. Note permissions, configuration paths, and log troubleshooting. Mastering these commands enables efficient daily Nginx operation and maintenance.