Demystifying the Linux File System: A Comprehensive Guide

TLDRThe Linux file system is a complex labyrinth of directories defined by the File System Hierarchy Standard. Learn how to navigate through it using essential commands and understand the purpose of each directory.

Key insights

🗂️The Linux file system follows a hierarchical structure defined by the File System Hierarchy Standard.

💻The 'bin' directory contains essential system binaries or executables, while the 's-bin' directory contains system binaries that should be executed by the root user.

📁The 'lib' directory stores common libraries used by binaries stored in 'bin' and 's-bin'.

🏢The 'usr' directory contains non-essential binaries or applications intended for end users.

🔧The 'etc' directory contains editable text configuration files, allowing customization of the software behavior.

Q&A

What is the purpose of the 'bin' directory?

—The 'bin' directory contains essential system binaries or executables that are vital for the operating system to function properly.

What is the difference between 'bin' and 's-bin' directories?

—The 'bin' directory contains system binaries that can be executed by any user, while the 's-bin' directory contains system binaries that should only be executed by the root user.

What is the significance of the 'lib' directory?

—The 'lib' directory stores common libraries that are shared by binaries stored in the 'bin' and 's-bin' directories.

What can be found in the 'usr' directory?

—The 'usr' directory contains non-essential binaries or applications that are intended for end users.

How can I customize the software behavior on my Linux system?

—You can customize the software behavior by modifying the text-based configuration files located in the 'etc' directory.

Timestamped Summary

00:00The Linux file system is a cryptic labyrinth of directories organized according to the File System Hierarchy Standard.

00:08The 'bin' directory contains essential system binaries, while the 's-bin' directory contains system binaries for the root user.

00:22The 'lib' directory stores common libraries used by binaries.

00:47The 'usr' directory contains non-essential binaries for end users.

01:14The 'etc' directory contains editable text configuration files for customizing software behavior.

Browse more