Mandatory Linux skill that can take you far in IT and Cybersecurity industries.
Whether you’re a seasoned sysadmin, a developer, a security professional, a devops or just starting your tech journey, understanding the Linux directory structure is fundamental to mastering the OS that powers the majority of servers worldwide.
- / — The Root Directory: The foundation of the file system.
- /𝗯𝗶𝗻 — Essential User Binaries: Houses vital commands for user interactions.
- /𝗯𝗼𝗼𝘁 — Boot Loader Files: Contains the boot loader and kernel files.
- /𝗱𝗲𝘃 — Device Files: Special files representing system devices.
- /𝗲𝘁𝗰 — Configuration Files: Holds system-wide configuration files and scripts.
- /𝗵𝗼𝗺𝗲 — Home Directories: Personal space for user accounts.
- /𝗹𝗶𝗯 — System Libraries: Critical shared libraries and kernel modules.
- /𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 — Removable Media: Default mount point for external storage devices.
- /𝗺𝗻𝘁 — Mount Directory: Used for mounting temporary file systems.
- /𝗼𝗽𝘁 — Optional Applications: Additional third-party software applications.
- /𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗰 — Process Information: Virtual directory with system and process information.
- /𝗿𝗼𝗼𝘁 — Root Home Directory: Home directory for the root user.
- /𝗿𝘂𝗻 — Application State: Contains runtime system information since the last boot.
- /𝘀𝗯𝗶𝗻 — System Binaries: Essential system administration binaries.
- /𝘀𝗿𝘃 — Service Data: Provides data for services hosted by the system.
- /𝘀𝘆𝘀 — System Files: A pseudo-file system providing access to kernel internals.
- /𝘁𝗺𝗽 — Temporary Files: Accessible space for storing temporary files.
- /𝘂𝘀𝗿 — User Programs: Repository for most user and system applications.
- /𝘃𝗮𝗿 — Variable Files: Directory for files that change frequently such as logs and caches.
Conclusion
Understanding this structure is like having a map of the Linux universe. It’s critical for system organization and security, and a must-know for anyone looking to thrive in a tech career.
Did I overlook any critical Linux directories that you consider essential?
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