Here console means screen on which command works are performed. For example ‘Terminal’ of Linux is also a type of console.
There are overall 6 virtual consoles and 1 graphical environment known as X Window.
To open virtual consoles following keys are used:
For Console 1: Ctrl + Alt + F1
For Console 2: Ctrl + Alt + F2
For Console 3: Ctrl + Alt + F3
For Console 4: Ctrl + Alt + F4
For Console 5: Ctrl + Alt + F5
For Console 6: Ctrl + Alt + F6
For X Window : Ctrl + Alt +F7