What is the Linux filesystem hierarchy standard

· Category: Linux

Short answer

The Filesystem Hierarchy Standard (FHS) defines the structure of Linux directories. /bin holds essential binaries, /etc stores configuration, /var contains variable data, /usr holds user programs, and /home stores user files. For managing access to these directories, see how to manage file permissions. For searching files within the hierarchy, see how to use find command.

Steps

  1. List root directories: ls /
  2. Check essential binaries: ls /bin
  3. View system configs: ls /etc
  4. Inspect variable logs: ls /var/log
  5. Review user-installed software: ls /usr/bin

Tips

  • /tmp is cleared on reboot; use /var/tmp for persistent temporary files
  • /opt is for optional add-on software
  • Search for text inside config files using how to use grep