Either you are a novice or a veteran in cybersecurity, understanding the Linux File System Directories is one of the basics you must know. The Linux file system structure can seem particularly alien if you’re coming from Windows.
EVERYTHING IS A FILE
In UNIX systems and its derivatives like Linux, everything is considered a file. If something is not a file, then it must be a process. The structure of file systems on Linux and other UNIX-like systems is defined by Filesystem Hierarchy Standard (FHS).
CATEGORIES OF FILES IN LINUX
There are three categories of files in Linux.
- General Files — These are regular files such as documents, images, audio, video, etc. These ordinary files are made up of binary or ASCII data.
- Directory Files — They serve as storage space of other files and folders. Directories are also categorized as files in linux.
- Device Files — These special files provide an interface to device drivers. They enable usability of hardware devices such as keyboard, mice, hard drives, USB devices, etc.
LINUX FILE SYSTEM STRUCTURE DIAGRAM
File system structure presented below is usually followed by standard Linux distributions.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
This should have provided a clear understanding of Linux file system structure and the different types of files that can exist on a Linux system. Linux foundation documentation can be referred to deep dive into the topic.
Thank you for reading and adding to the knowledge pool. Stay blessed, be healthy and don’t forget to give your valuable comments.
