/usr/bin/lsusb

The /usr/bin/lsusb command in Linux is used to list USB devices connected to the system. Here’s a detailed explanation of what lsusb does and how it is used:

Purpose of lsusb

1. USB Device Listing:

   • lsusb lists all USB devices currently connected to the system, including details such as vendor and product IDs, device class, and bus information.

2. Device Identification:

   • It provides a quick overview of all USB devices to identify specific devices and their properties.

How to Use lsusb

• Basic Usage: To display a list of USB devices connected to the system, simply execute lsusb without any options.

  lsusb

• Example Output:

  Bus 001 Device 001: ID 1d6b:0002 Linux Foundation 2.0 root hub
  Bus 002 Device 001: ID 1d6b:0003 Linux Foundation 3.0 root hub
  Bus 003 Device 001: ID 1d6b:0002 Linux Foundation 2.0 root hub

• Options:

  • -t or --tree: Display a tree-like view of USB devices, showing how devices are connected to USB buses.

    lsusb -t

  • -v or --verbose: Provide verbose output, including more detailed information about each USB device.

    lsusb -v

Usage Scenarios

• Device Troubleshooting: Quickly identify if USB devices are recognized by the system.

• Hardware Inventory: Gather information about connected USB devices for system documentation or inventory purposes.

• Driver Installation: Check USB device details to ensure correct drivers are installed and loaded.

Conclusion

lsusb is a valuable command-line utility in Linux for managing and inspecting USB devices connected to the system. By providing detailed information about connected USB devices, lsusb facilitates efficient system administration, troubleshooting, and hardware management in Linux-based environments. Integrating lsusb into regular system maintenance routines ensures accurate monitoring and management of USB devices, enhancing overall system reliability and functionality.