Special Edition Using Linux®, Sixth Edition

The Linux Filesystem Structure

The Linux filesystem is very similar to the standard UNIX filesystem layout, but of course there are some minor differences. The key to understanding the Linux filesystem is to first understand the underlying structure. A more in-depth discussion on the internal workings of the Linux filesystem and the methodology used in handling files is covered in Chapter 9, "Disk Drives and Filesystems." The Linux directory structure, which is very similar to UNIX or DOS, is designed as a tree hierarchy . At the top level is the main directory, often referred to as the root directory (or the system root directory ). It is the only directory at this level. All other directories are referenced in relation to the root directory. ...