bottom CLI
bottom displays processes, CPU load, memory, network and disks in the terminal with graphs, search and configurable widgets.
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- Last commit
- MIT
Extended access
Why this level
- Sending a termination signal can interrupt a running process.
Install
Manual install
cargo install bottom --lockedFirst package installation in Cargo; the README first suggests updating stable Rust.
Access and checks
How we reviewExtended accessThe tool runs code or makes network calls and only reads external data.
- Sending a termination signal can interrupt a running process.
This is third-party code. Review the repository files before installing.
What it does
bottom, launched as `btm`, visualizes machine activity in a terminal. It combines CPU, memory, network and disk widgets with a searchable, sortable process table. Process trees and termination signals support investigation. Layouts, widget behavior, graph focus and visible time intervals are configurable. It helps a person inspect load during builds or agent runs. The tool displays machine metrics; identifying the application-level cause remains the investigator’s task.
Who it is for. On-call engineers and developers inspecting workstation or server load from a terminal.
Good fit when
- Find which build process consumes CPU and memory.
- Compare network and disk activity during a slowdown.
- Inspect a process tree while investigating load.
- Expand one metric to observe it over time.
Not a fit when
- You need long-term metrics storage and centralized alerting.
- Metrics must automatically explain an application error.
- The interface must offer no process-signaling capability.
Example request
Explain which bottom metrics to compare during a slow build without terminating processes.Limitations
Official support depends on the OS and architecture combination; other platforms can have missing features and unresolved bugs. Temperature sensors, battery information and other readings depend on operating-system support and user permissions. Cargo installation requires a suitable stable Rust toolchain prepared beforehand. Sending a signal from the process table can interrupt programs and unsaved work, so verify the target process before acting.
How to disable. Quit bottom. Closing the monitor does not stop observed processes; uninstall through the installation method used.
FAQ
What is the command?
Run `btm` in a terminal after installation.
Can I search processes?
Yes. The process widget supports searching and sorting; consult its key help.
Is there a process tree?
Yes. Enable tree mode to inspect parent-child relationships.
Can I change the layout?
Yes. Configure widgets through command-line options or the config file.
Is it strictly read-only?
No. The process widget can send signals. Avoid those actions for observation-only work.
Discussion
No questions or reviews yet.
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README in short
A basic htop-inspired layout and single-widget expansion are available. Official and experimental platforms are listed separately.