📂 Understanding the Linux Directory Structure
When you first dive into Linux, the sheer number of top-level directories in / can be overwhelming. But each one has a purpose and a reason to exist. Let’s break down what these directories are and what they're typically used for.
💡 Tip: All paths below are rooted at
/, the filesystem root.
📁 Top-Level Directories
| Path | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
/boot |
Boot Loader Files | Contains files needed for the boot process like the kernel and initrd. |
/etc |
Configuration Files | System-wide configuration files for services, networking, etc. |
/home |
User Home Directories | Contains personal directories like /home/alice, /home/bob, etc. |
/root |
Root Home Directory | Home directory for the root user, separate from /home. |
/opt |
Third-Party Applications | Optional and third-party software is typically installed here. |
/dev |
Device Files | Represents hardware devices like /dev/sda, /dev/null, etc. |
/var |
Variable Files | Dynamic files such as logs, mail spools, and application data. |
/bin |
User Binaries | Essential command-line programs available to all users. |
/sbin |
System Binaries | System-level binaries for administration, mostly used by root. |
/usr |
User Applications | Contains user-space programs, libraries, and documentation. |
/proc |
Process Information | Virtual filesystem providing real-time system and process information. |
/mnt |
Mount Directory | Temporary mount point for filesystems mounted manually. |
/sys |
Virtual File System | Interface to the kernel and device tree, mainly for system info/config. |
/media |
Removable Devices | Auto-mounted removable media (USB drives, CDs) appear here. |
/run |
Temporary File System | Stores transient runtime data (PID files, sockets) cleared on reboot. |
/tmp |
Temporary Files | Used to store temporary files; typically cleared on reboot. |
/lost+found |
Recover Broken Files | Holds recovered files after a system crash or filesystem error (ext* only). |
/lib |
System Libraries | Shared libraries used by binaries in /bin and /sbin. |
/srv |
Service Data Directory | Contains data served by system services (e.g., web, FTP). |
🧠 TL;DR
The Linux filesystem isn’t random—it’s a well-organized layout with each directory serving a specific purpose. Understanding it helps you navigate and manage a Linux system more effectively.
📝 Have you explored these directories before? What's your favorite Linux tip or command? Drop it in the comments!
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