How to Fix “systemctl not found” in Minimal Linux Systems

Introduction

If you’re using a minimal Linux system like Alpine, BusyBox, or a Docker container, you might encounter the error “systemctl: command not found.” This happens because systemctl is part of systemd, which is not included in many lightweight distributions. In this guide, we’ll explain why this error occurs and how to fix it.

Why “systemctl not found” Happens

Most minimal Linux systems don’t include systemd to keep them lightweight. Instead, they use other init systems like OpenRC, runit, or SysVinit. Since systemctl belongs to systemd, it’s unavailable by default.

Fix 1: Check If Your System Uses systemd

Run:
     

ps 1

If the output shows /sbin/init or /usr/lib/systemd/systemd, your system uses systemd. Otherwise, you’re using a different init system and must use its commands.

Fix 2: Install systemd (If Supported)

On systemd-compatible distributions like Ubuntu or Debian:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install systemd

Then reboot and use:

sudo systemctl start <service-name>

Fix 3: Use Alternative Init Commands

If your system uses another init system:

• OpenRC (Alpine Linux):
  

  rc-service <service-name> start
  

• 
• runit:

  sv up <service-name>
  

• 
• SysVinit:

  service <service-name> start
  
  

Fix 4: Using Docker or Minimal Containers

In Docker containers, systemd is typically not installed. Use:

service <service-name> start

or directly run the process in the container:

/usr/sbin/<daemon> &

Conclusion

The “systemctl not found” error doesn’t always mean something is broken — it usually means your system doesn’t use systemd. Understanding which init system your Linux environment uses will help you choose the correct command and manage services properly.

How to Fix “systemctl not found” in Minimal Linux Systems (F.A.Q)