Navigating the Linux File System Hierarchy : From Basic to Advanced
Mastering the fundamentals of the Linux hierarchy is a must for every user, but delving deeper elevates your professionalism. Here, you’ll discover a comprehensive guide spanning common basics you use daily to essential advanced concepts less frequently utilized but crucial for your expertise
Basic Directories:
1. / (Root): The top-level directory where the entire file system hierarchy begins.
2. /bin (Binary): Contains essential binary executables needed for system boot and repair.
3. /boot: Stores boot-related files, including the kernel and bootloader configurations.
4. /dev (Device): Contains special device files representing hardware components.
5. /etc (Etcetera): Holds system-wide configuration files governing the behavior of various programs and services.
6. /home: Where user home directories are located, each containing user-specific settings and data.
7. /lib (Library): Stores shared libraries critical for system and application functionality.
8. /media: Used for mounting removable media like USB drives and DVDs.
9. /mnt (Mount): Used for temporarily mounting external devices or file systems.
10. /opt (Optional): An optional directory for additional software packages.
Intermediate Directories:
11. /proc (Process Information): A virtual file system providing information about running processes and kernel parameters.
12. /root: The home directory for the system’s root user.
13. /run: Stores run-time variable data, such as process IDs. It resides in memory.
14. /sbin (System Binary): Contains system binaries used for system maintenance and repair.
15. /srv (Service): Stores data files for various services provided by the system.
16. /tmp (Temporary): The designated directory for temporary files, typically cleared on system reboot.
17. /usr (Unix System Resources): Holds user commands, libraries, and documentation, serving as a treasure trove for essential resources.
18. /var (Variable): Houses variable data, including logs, caches, and spool files that change during system operation.
Advanced Directories:
19. /lost+found: Used by the fsck (file system check) utility to recover corrupted files and fragments. Typically empty unless there’s an issue with the file system.
20. /lib64: On 64-bit systems, this directory contains 64-bit shared libraries. It’s similar in function to /lib but for 64-bit applications.
21. /sys (System): Provides a virtual file system interface to kernel parameters and information, allowing interaction with and configuration of various aspects of the kernel.
22. /snap: On systems using Snappy package management, this directory contains Snappy packages, including applications and their dependencies.
23. /etc/opt: Sometimes used for additional software configuration files when /opt is in use.
24. /etc/sysconfig: Contains system configuration files on some Linux distributions, particularly Red Hat-based systems.
25. /usr/local: Often used for locally-installed software not managed by the package manager.
26. /usr/include: Contains header files used for compiling software.
27. /usr/local/games: Stores locally installed games and entertainment software.
28. /usr/local/share/games: Used for locally installed game data, including levels, maps, and other game-related content.
29. /usr/share/locale: Contains localization data for various software and utilities.
30. /usr/local/share/locale: For locally installed localization data.
31. /usr/include: Contains C and C++ header files for development purposes.
32. /opt/bin: An optional directory for binary executables of software installed in the /opt directory.
33. /opt/lib: Stores libraries related to software installed in the /opt directory.
34. /opt/etc: Configuration files for software in the /opt directory.
35. /opt/share: Used for architecture-independent data associated with software in the /opt directory.
36. /etc/systemd/system: Contains unit files defining system services and targets on systems using systemd for initialization and service management.
37. /lib/modules: Holds loadable kernel modules used to extend kernel functionality.
38. /usr/share/fonts: Contains font files used by various applications and system components.
39. /usr/share/applications: Stores desktop files used by Linux desktop environments to list available applications and provide information about them.
Conclusion:
Mastering the Linux file system hierarchy, from fundamental directories like / and /bin to advanced ones such as /opt and /usr/local, empowers users and administrators. This comprehensive guide offers a roadmap for effective system management, underlining the importance of understanding each directory’s role and significance. By exploring these directories, you’ve taken a significant step towards becoming a proficient Linux user, administrator, or developer. With this knowledge, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the Linux ecosystem and unlock its full potential.