Linux File System

Introduction

The Linux file system is the heart of any Unix-like operating system, crucial for users and system administrators. In this guide, we’ll explore the root directory and its subdirectories and files, unveiling their significance in the Linux ecosystem.

/bin (Essential system binaries)

The /bin directory contains fundamental system binaries:

• ls: Lists directory contents.
• cp: Copies files and directories.
• mv: Moves or renames files and directories.
• rm: Removes files and directories.
• mkdir: Creates directories.

/boot (Boot-related files)

The /boot directory holds crucial files for the boot process:

• vmlinuz: Contains the Linux kernel image.
• initrd: Initial RAM disk image used during boot.

/dev (Device files)

The /dev directory contains device files:

• block: Device files for block devices like hard drives.
• char: Device files for character devices like keyboards.

/etc (System-wide configuration files)

The /etc directory stores system-wide configuration files:

• fstab: Defines file system mount configurations.
• ssh: Configuration files for SSH server.
• network: Defines network settings.

/home (User home directories)

The /home directory stores user-specific home directories:

• .bashrc: User’s Bash shell configuration.
• notes.txt: Sample file for personal notes.

/lib (Shared libraries)

The /lib directory contains shared libraries crucial for software operation.

/media (Mount point for removable media)

The /media directory is where removable media is automatically mounted.

/mnt (Temporary mount point)

The /mnt directory is used for temporary external file system mounts.

/opt (Optional software packages)

The /opt directory is for optional software packages.

/proc (Virtual filesystem for process information)

The /proc directory provides real-time process information.

/root (Root user’s home directory)

The /root directory is the root user’s home directory.

/run (Run-time variable data)

The /run directory stores temporary runtime data.

/sbin (System binaries for system administration)

The /sbin directory contains binaries for system administration.

/srv (Service data)

The /srv directory stores data related to system services.

/sys (Kernel-related files)

The /sys directory contains kernel-related files.

/tmp (Temporary files)

The /tmp directory stores temporary files.

/usr (User programs and data)

The /usr directory contains user programs and data.

/var (Variable data files)

The /var directory contains variable data files.

Conclusion

Understanding the Linux file system structure is crucial. While most files shouldn’t be modified without proper knowledge, customization in /etc and /home can be done cautiously. Always back up to avoid unintended consequences.