Linux Directory Structure

In Linux, everything is treated as a file even if it is a normal file, a directory, or even a device such as a printer or keyboard. All the directories and files are stored under one root directory which is represented by a forward slash /.

The Linux directory layout follows the Filesystem Hierarchy Standard (FHS). This standard defines how directories are organized and what types of files should be stored in each. Since Linux is based on UNIX, it inherits many of its filesystem conventions. Similar directory structures can also be found in other UNIX-like operating systems such as BSD and macOS. Understanding the Linux directory structure is essential for efficient system administration, file management, and problem-solving.

Types of files in the Linux system

Linux categorizes files into different types based on their purpose, such as general data storage, system structure, or device representation.

1. General Files - It is also called ordinary files. It may be an image, video, program, or simple text file. These types of files can be in ASCII or Binary format. It is the most commonly used file in the Linux system.
2. Directory Files - These types of files are a warehouse for other file types. It may be a directory file within a directory (subdirectory).
3. Device Files - In a Windows-like operating system, devices like CD-ROM and hard drives are represented as drive letters like F: G: H, whereas in the Linux system, devices are represented as files. As for example, /dev/sda1, /dev/sda2, and so on.

We know that in a Windows-like operating system, files are stored in different folders on different data drives like C: D: E:, whereas in the Linux/Unix operating system, files are stored in a tree-like structure starting with the root directory, as shown in the diagram below. 

The Linux/Unix file system hierarchy base begins at the root and everything starts with the root directory. 

Also Read: Linux File Hierarchy Structure

Top-level directories associated with the root directory

These top-level directories under the root (/) form the foundation of the Linux file system, each serving a specific role in organizing system files, user data, and configurations.

Some other directories in the Linux system

These directories support core functionality, hardware access, runtime processes, and system-level operations in a Linux environment.

Exploring directories and their usability

We know that Linux is a very complex system that requires an efficient way to start, stop, maintain and reboot a system, unlike Windows operating system. In the Linux system some well-defined configuration files, binaries, main pages information files are available for every process. 

Linux Kernel File:

• /boot/vmlinux - The Linux kernel file.

Device Files:

• /dev/hda - Device file for the first IDE HDD.
• /dev/hdc - A pseudo-device that output garbage output is redirected to /dev/null.

System Configuration Files

A collection of essential configuration files in the /etc directory that define system behavior, user access, boot settings, network rules, and service management in Linux.

User Related Files

These directories under /usr contain essential user-space programs, libraries, headers, and shared data used by both regular users and administrators.

Virtual and Pseudo Process Related Files

These /proc files provide real-time system and process information generated dynamically by the Linux kernel.

Version Information File

Quickly view the current Linux OS version using this file.

• /version - It displays the Linux version information.

Log Files

These files record crucial system events, logins, and activity history for monitoring and troubleshooting.

To check the Linux directories, open the terminal and execute sudo -s followed by system password to give root privilege. Then after changing the current home directory to the root directory and check the list of all available directories in the base directory as shown below. 

Conclusion

If we understand the Linux directory's structure correctly, it would be so easy to effectively navigate and manage our filesystem, locate important configuration files, and access system information. One must know that the directory structure and specific file mentioned in this article are based on standard Linux conventions. We must consider that the different Linux distributions may have variations in the directory structure and specific file locations, but overall concept and organization remain similar.

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Article Tags :

• Linux-Unix