Linux is an open-source operating system that has gained immense popularity among computer enthusiasts, programmers, and professionals due to its flexibility, security, and performance. One of the key features that make Linux stand out is its file system structure. In this article, we will discuss the Linux file system hierarchy and structure.
Linux File System Hierarchy
The Linux file system hierarchy is a tree-like structure that starts from the root directory and branches out into various subdirectories. All the files and directories on a Linux system are organized according to this hierarchy, making it easier to navigate, manage, and access files.
The root directory is denoted by the forward slash (/) symbol, and it serves as the starting point for the entire file system. All other directories, files, and subdirectories are organized under the root directory, forming a hierarchical structure.
Understanding Linux File System Structure
Now, let's dive deeper into the Linux file system structure and understand the function of each directory.
/ (root directory) The root directory is the top-level directory in the file system hierarchy. All other directories and files are stored under this directory. Only the root user has permission to modify this directory.
/bin (binaries) The /bin directory contains essential binary files required for basic system functioning. These files are often used during the boot process, and they must be available for the system to work correctly.
/boot (boot loader files) The /boot directory contains the files required for booting the Linux system. These files include the boot loader, kernel, and configuration files.
/dev (devices) The /dev directory contains device files that represent the hardware devices connected to the system, such as hard drives, USB devices, and network interfaces.
/etc (system configuration files) The /etc directory contains configuration files for various system services, such as network, user accounts, and software applications.
/home (user home directories) The /home directory contains the home directories of all the users on the system. Each user has a separate directory in this directory where they can store their personal files.
/lib (libraries) The /lib directory contains shared libraries required by various system programs and applications. These libraries contain code that is used by multiple programs and is loaded into memory when the program is executed.
/media (removable media) The /media directory contains subdirectories for removable media devices, such as USB drives and DVDs. When a device is connected, it is automatically mounted under this directory.
/mnt (mount point) The /mnt directory is used as a temporary mount point for mounting file systems. When a new file system is mounted, it is mounted under this directory.
/opt (optional software) The /opt directory is used for installing optional software applications on the system. These applications are not essential for system functioning, but they are often required by users.
/proc (processes) The /proc directory contains files that represent running processes on the system. These files provide information about the system's current state, such as CPU usage, memory usage, and network connections.
/root (root home directory) The /root directory is the home directory of the root user. Only the root user has permission to modify this directory.
/run (run-time files) The /run directory contains temporary files required by various system services during run-time. These files are deleted when the system is shut down.
/sbin (system binaries) The /sbin directory contains binary files required for system administration tasks. These files can only be executed by the root user.
/srv (service data) The /srv directory is used to store data for various system services, such as web servers and FTP servers.