Linux uses a hierarchical file system structure where everything begins at the root directory (/) and branches out into various subdirectories. Unlike operating systems like Windows, Linux does not use drive letters (e.g., C:); instead, all storage devices are mounted under the root directory.

Key Components of the Linux File System

1. Root Directory (/):

   • SimilThe top-level directory from which all other directories branch out.

2. /bin:

   • Contains essential binary executables, such as common command-line tools (e.g., ls, cp, mv).

   • Available for all users.

3. /boot:

   • Stores files needed for the system boot process, including the Linux kernel and bootloader files.

4. /dev:

   • Contains device files representing hardware components like hard drives, USB devices, and printers.

5. /etc:

   • Holds system-wide configuration files and scripts (e.g., network configurations, user credentials).

   • Examples: /etc/passwd, /etc/fstab.

6. /home:

   • Contains personal directories for all users (e.g., /home/username).

   • Each user’s directory stores their documents, downloads, and personal configuration files.

7. /lib:

   • Houses shared libraries required by binaries in /bin and /sbin.

8. /media:

   • Used for automatically mounting removable media like CDs, DVDs, and USB drives.

9. /mnt:

   • A generic mount point for temporary mounting of file systems (e.g., network drives).

10. /opt:

    • Contains optional software and add-on packages.

11. /proc:

    • A virtual file system providing information about running processes and the kernel.

    • Example: /proc/cpuinfo shows CPU details.

12. /root:

    • The home directory for the root (superuser) account.

13. /sbin:

    • Stores essential system binaries, typically used by the system administrator (e.g., fsck, reboot).

14. /tmp:

    • A temporary directory for files generated by running processes.

    • Files in /tmp are usually cleared on reboot.

15. /usr:

    • Contains user-installed software and utilities.

    • Subdirectories include /usr/bin, /usr/lib, and /usr/share.

16. /var:

    • Stores variable files such as logs, caches, and spool files (e.g., /var/log, /var/spool).