Linux File System Hierarchy

The Linux File System Hierarchy Standard (FHS) defines the structure and organization of files and directories in a Linux system. This standard ensures consistency across different distributions, allowing software developers and administrators to write scripts and applications that work seamlessly on various Linux platforms. Here’s an overview of the key directories in the Linux File System Hierarchy:

1. / (Root Directory):
– Description: The root directory is the top-level directory in the Linux file system. It contains essential system files and directories and serves as the starting point for the entire file system.

2. /bin (Binary Binaries):
– Description: This directory contains essential binary executables that are required for the system to function in single-user mode.

3. /boot (Boot Loader Files):
– Description: The /boot directory contains files related to the boot loader, kernel, and initial ramdisk (initramfs) required during the boot process.

4. /dev (Device Files):
– Description: Device files representing hardware devices and interfaces are stored in this directory. These files provide access to physical and virtual devices.

5. /etc (Configuration Files):
– Description: Configuration files for system-wide and application-specific settings are stored in /etc. This directory plays a crucial role in system configuration.

6. /home (User Home Directories):
– Description: User home directories are located in /home. Each user has a subdirectory in /home containing their personal files and settings.

7. /lib (Library Files):
– Description: Shared library files essential for the operation of core system binaries are stored in /lib.

8. /lib64 (64-bit Library Files):
– Description: On 64-bit systems, this directory contains 64-bit versions of shared libraries.

9. /media and /mnt (Mount Points for Removable Media):
– Description: These directories are used for mounting removable media such as USB drives, optical discs, and network shares.

10. /opt (Optional Software Packages):
– Description: The /opt directory is reserved for the installation of optional software packages. It allows third-party applications to be organized in a standardized way.

11. /proc (Process Information):
– Description: The /proc directory is a virtual file system that provides information about processes and system configuration in real-time.

12. /root (Root User Home Directory):
– Description: The home directory for the root user, the system administrator.

13. /run (Runtime Data):
– Description: /run contains runtime data, including system and application information, that should persist across reboots.

14. /sbin (System Binaries):
– Description: Similar to /bin, /sbin contains essential binary executables, but these are typically used by system administrators and require superuser (root) privileges.

15. /srv (Service Data):
– Description: The /srv directory is used for storing data files related to services provided by the system.

16. /tmp (Temporary Files):
– Description: /tmp is a directory for temporary files that are typically deleted upon system reboot.

17. /usr (User Binaries and Libraries):
– Description: /usr contains user-related binaries, libraries, documentation, and other resources.

18. /var (Variable Data):
– Description: /var is used for variable data files that may change during the course of normal system operation, such as log files, spool directories, and cached data.

Understanding the Linux File System Hierarchy is essential for navigating and managing the file structure in a Linux environment. It provides a standardized layout that facilitates system administration, software development, and application deployment.