Understanding the Linux Directory Structure

The article introduces the common top‑level directories found in a standard Linux file system and describes the type of files each directory holds.

bin (binaries): stores executable binary programs for all users.

sbin (super‑user binaries): stores system binaries that normally require root privileges.

etc (etcetera): contains system configuration files.

usr (Unix shared resources): holds shared system resources and application files.

home : the root directory for regular users' personal files.

root : the home directory of the super‑user (root).

dev (devices): contains device files representing hardware devices.

lib (library): stores shared libraries and kernel modules needed by programs.

mnt (mount): provides mount points for administrators to attach temporary file systems.

boot : contains files required for system booting, such as the kernel and bootloader configuration.

tmp (temporary): used for temporary files created by applications.

var (variable): holds files whose content changes during system operation, such as logs and spool files.