[FAQ] Linux File System Overview


Recommended Posts

  • 4 weeks later...
  • 1 month later...

Very interesting read, I've read the whole of Page 1 (slowly getting through Page 2). But I've been looking for this sort of guide to help me learn more about the folder...I mean, Directory Structure. I seriously did not know that a 'Folder' and a 'Directory' are two different things, but have the same result.

Directory = Physical (Think Command Line)

Folder = Graphical Representation of a Directory

Ext3 = /boot

Reiser3/FS = /root

What about a SWAP partition? Since we're on file structures, I'm confused about the following:

Why does Linux need 3 partitions to install Fedora Core or Gentoo when Windows only needs 1 partition?

/boot (+32M)

/swap (+512M)

/root (remaining space)

My incorrect theory (so please correct me):

- The kernel is stored in /boot as a compressed 2-4MB file.

- The reason it's stored here is because when you turn your system on, the MBR detects GRUB and loads up the kernel here as opposed to /root for file protection???

- /boot decompresses into /swap for your session (for some reason).

- /root all your files, system files...everything (except for the kernel).

^^ You can see why I'm confused.

  DjmUK said:
Why does Linux need 3 partitions to install Fedora Core or Gentoo when Windows only needs 1 partition?

/boot (+32M)

/swap (+512M)

/root (remaining space)

585662167[/snapback]

Linux can install just fine on a single partition, if you'd prefer it that way. Here's a few reasons why most distributions have traditionally used 3 or sometimes even more partitions:

- because it facilitates easier backups and reinstalls of the OS

- with a seperate /boot partition, your kernel can be placed in there and then the partition not mounted automatically at boot so that your vital boot files aren't available to be messed around with unless you specifically mount them

- using a swap partition instead of a swap file (linux can happily handle either) again prevents silly errors like people deleting the file by mistake and so not getting any swap space available at next boot

- using multiple partitions can just make managing your system easier - for example many servers use a seperate partition for /var which is traditionally where the http documentroot is on an apache webserver and also where the mail spooler normally resides on mailservers

- many people keep their /home mounted on a seperate partition which they mount from multiple operating systems - back when I used redhat 9 alongside gentoo, I had a seperate /home dir which got mounted from both distros, so I kept the same home folder all the time

Hope that gives you some idea of why multiple partitions are normally used.

Thanks rezza, I think I understand it all, and according to your notes hopefully this would be a possible partition table (3 HDDs):

hda1 /boot (kernel storage)

hda2 /swap (still confused as to what gets stored here)

hda3 /root (operating system)

hdb1 /home (personal files)

hdb2 /var/httpd/website_pages (client's web sites)

hdc1 /var/mysql_db (mysql database server)

For a mid-size business it would be better to have this (3 PC's):

PC1 - hda1 /boot (kernel storage)

PC1 - hda2 /swap (still confused as to what gets stored here)

PC1 - hda3 /root (operating system)

PC1 - hdb1 /home (personal files)

PC2 - hda1 /var/httpd/website_pages (client's web sites)

PC3 - hda1 /var/mysql_db (mysql database server)

^ I decided to make more then three partitions and reinstall Fedora Core 3 to see what the differences were.

I have two 20GB hard drives and they are partitioned as followed:

hda1 /dev/hda1 /boot reiserfs 102MB

hda1 /dev/mapper/VolGroup00-LogVol01 / reiserfs 5.2GB

hda1 /dev/mapper/VolGroup00-LogVol03 /tmp reiserfs 5.2GB

hda1 /dev/mapper/VolGroup00-LogVol07 /opt reiserfs 5.0GB

hda1 /swap swap 1GB

hda1 none /dev/shm tmpfs 251MB

hda2 /dev/mapper/VolGroup01-LogVol04 /usr reiserfs 5.0GB

hda2 /dev/mapper/VolGroup01-LogVol06 /usr/local reiserfs 5.0GB

hda2 /dev/mapper/VolGroup01-LogVol02 /home reiserfs 5.0GB

hda2 /dev/mapper/VolGroup01-LogVol05 /var reiserfs 5.0GB

So far I haven't seen any benefit in splitting it up like this, but I don't plan on changing it anytime soon though.

  DjmUK said:

hda2 /swap (still confused as to what gets stored here)

Swap= virtual memroy= page file in windows.

  Hurmoth said:
^ I decided to make more then three partitions and reinstall Fedora Core 3 to see what the differences were.

I have two 20GB hard drives and they are partitioned as followed:

hda1 /dev/hda1 /boot reiserfs 102MB

hda1 /dev/mapper/VolGroup00-LogVol01 / reiserfs 5.2GB

hda1 /dev/mapper/VolGroup00-LogVol03 /tmp reiserfs 5.2GB

hda1 /dev/mapper/VolGroup00-LogVol07 /opt reiserfs 5.0GB

hda1 /swap swap 1GB

hda1 none /dev/shm tmpfs 251MB

hda2 /dev/mapper/VolGroup01-LogVol04 /usr reiserfs 5.0GB

hda2 /dev/mapper/VolGroup01-LogVol06 /usr/local reiserfs 5.0GB

hda2 /dev/mapper/VolGroup01-LogVol02 /home reiserfs 5.0GB

hda2 /dev/mapper/VolGroup01-LogVol05 /var reiserfs 5.0GB

So far I haven't seen any benefit in splitting it up like this, but I don't plan on changing it anytime soon though.

585667869[/snapback]

Why all reiserfs? Ext3 seems to have better compatibility on Ubuntu.

  jack_canada said:
Why all reiserfs? Ext3 seems to have better compatibility on Ubuntu.

585667950[/snapback]

I was just playing around... I might switch them later on to see if there are any differences, but I'm satisfied with reiserfs right now.

  • 6 months later...

I have a doubt!

In windows there is a folder named "Program Files" In which by defauly all the files go into.. :sleep:

In linux for example, if I get a .bzip or .tar file I usually extract it to /opt folder and do a ./configure, make, make install. Actually In which folder in Linux is it **RECOMMENDED** to extract and Install? :blink:

---------------------------------------------------------------

Naveen Chandran

http:\\naveenchandran.blogspot.com

^^^ Only some of the stuff goes into "Program Files". There are .dlls and registry entries and so forth.

But *nix is set up for multi-users, so it is set up a bit differently. There is /sbin/ for sytem binaries (executables), /bin/ for all-user binaries that are part of the installation. Individual users can put their personal executables in the bin/ directory in their home, and "extra" apps that you (as sys admin) want all users to have access to are usually thrown in /usr/bin/ or /usr/local/bin/

I guess for a single-user machine, "Program Files" is fine. For a system that was designed for multi-user, though, it doesn't cut it.

  • 2 months later...

I have tryed linux, liked it, and headed back to windows. Why ? 'cause i got scared of the thought of learning a hole new file system! after this, i really have my head set on linux, wich pops 2 questions on my mind (and yes its only 2 questions :p)

Wich distro is more suitable to handle media, games, and all around fun? (Yes my computer is my favorite toy !)

How can i have complex games (like counter strike) on my linex (probably using wine, if you have a guide to this prog, please share :))

Thanks for the attention, and thank you markjensen and everione else, for showing that linux is not a 2 headed monster !

Which distro? All are about the same, and anything lacking due to potential patent issues can easily be added with a command or two. Same for games (though, it may be easier to keep Windows around for your easy gaming needs).

  • 1 year later...
  rockwolf said:
Recommended Link: (suggested to be added to first post)

Filesystem Hierarchy Standard:

http://www.pathname.com/fhs/

This is the basis of the layout of the *nix file system.

Good reference from my quick overview. (Y)

Added to first post. Thanks!

  • 3 months later...

A graphical example layout would probably be helpful, I'll make one when I understand it myself (which I more or less do, except for the no top-level hard drive thing. What is the utmost highest level?)

and, ****, I'd hoped I'd be able to get rid of the annoying 'all users' 'username' program folders nonsense. What if you're the only one using your computer, all the time, and are kind of a neatfreak to boot? Whatevs

Thanks for info.

  nilsHaus said:
A graphical example layout would probably be helpful, I'll make one when I understand it myself (which I more or less do, except for the no top-level hard drive thing. What is the utmost highest level?)

and, ****, I'd hoped I'd be able to get rid of the annoying 'all users' 'username' program folders nonsense. What if you're the only one using your computer, all the time, and are kind of a neatfreak to boot? Whatevs

Thanks for info.

Graphics would be nice! :yes:

As far as top level, that is the root, or "/". You can attach (mount) hard drive, networked drives and anything else to locations in the regular filesystem.

And, *nix OSes have been multi-user for a very long time, so the foundation to separate users is a fundamental part of the OS design. You can, however, run as root if you like, and symlink your bin directories to one common spot, if you like. However, if you ever do want to set up (for testing, or what-not) an additional user account, you kinda just screwed yourself and made things a bit more complex by doing by it that way.

EDIT: A few filesystem graphics for you to get ideas from, for starters can be found using Google Image.

Well, I don't know how things are the Linux way, but if you're intending to use multiple disks, consider using a volume manager. LVM or what it is in Linux. It treats all added disks as one large logical volume. I think that's preferable over mounting different drives in a specific locations and play the remaining disk space game for each of those mounts. Instead, set up your system as you want, and when you run out of space, put disk into the computer, add it to the LVM and grow the filesystem running out of space.

Myself I've been spoiled by ZFS and don't want to miss it (Solaris user). I guess under Linux, putting at least your home folders on ZFS/FUSE may be an option if it becomes stable in future, since those will be the ones growing out of proportions while the rest staying more or less stable.

Here, it currently looks like this:

root@bigmclargehuge:~ > zpool status
  pool: tank
 state: ONLINE
 scrub: none requested
config:

		NAME		STATE	 READ WRITE CKSUM
		tank		ONLINE	   0	 0	 0
		  c3d0s7	ONLINE	   0	 0	 0
		  c0d0s1	ONLINE	   0	 0	 0

errors: No known data errors
root@bigmclargehuge:~ > zpool list
NAME					SIZE	USED   AVAIL	CAP  HEALTH	 ALTROOT
tank					293G   68.9G	224G	23%  ONLINE	 -
root@bigmclargehuge:~ > zfs list  
NAME						 USED  AVAIL  REFER  MOUNTPOINT
tank						68.9G   219G  8.03M  /tank
tank/home				   65.5G   219G	21K  /export/home
tank/home/root			   336K   219G   336K  /export/home/root
tank/home/servo			 65.5G   219G  1003M  /export/home/servo
tank/home/servo/Documents   1.12G   219G  1.12G  /export/home/servo/Documents
tank/home/servo/LargeFiles  11.3G   219G  11.3G  /export/home/servo/LargeFiles
tank/home/servo/Music	   2.74G   219G  2.74G  /export/home/servo/Music
tank/home/servo/Pictures	1.10G   219G  1.10G  /export/home/servo/Pictures
tank/home/servo/Video	   48.3G   219G  48.3G  /export/home/servo/Video
tank/opt					 448M   219G   448M  legacy
tank/usr					2.87G   219G  2.87G  legacy
tank/var					82.0M   219G  82.0M  legacy
root@bigmclargehuge:~ >
  • 1 month later...
This topic is now closed to further replies.
  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.
  • Posts

    • no, the Microsoft's device is rumored to be canceled.
    • So it's still a Windows PC, which means I'll have to buy half of my Xbox games for the second time to play them on Xbox Ally and not all of them have cross-save. I'll wait for a portable Xbox (not an Xbox branded PC) or will consider a handheld PC when next gen comes.
    • Was sold until I saw that small 7" screen size. My 2022 AOK ZOE already had 8" and it was base model.
    • GOG store introduces One-Click Mods feature with support for Fallout: London and others by Pulasthi Ariyasinghe The GOG store just announced a new feature to its platform that it is calling a new era for modding. Revealed at the PC Gaming Show, GOG One-Click Mods functions exactly like it sounds like, letting PC gamers browse, install, and play community creations easily and without jumping through hoops. "Mods are an essential part of video games preservation, allowing you to relive your favorite stories in countless possible ways," said the GOG team today. "Mods management, however – is not for everyone. Digging into game files, installing requirements, restarting the game thousands of times, making it crash every time… But no more." Unlike other modding platforms that let anyone upload their creations and let the user work out the details, GOG's version is a curated experience. By working directly with the modding teams, the popular DRM-free store's staff will be making sure that each of the mods available works instantly with the game, with no need for additional research or add-on installations. "From bug fixes, restored cut scenes, quests and characters, to completely freshly-made new content – we teamed-up with these community-driven projects creators to offer you this list of handpicked Mods," added the company. "Combining our strengths, these are now accessible right away, already installed within the base game for the smoothest experience!" Here are some of the mods available right now on the new platform: Horn of the Abyss for Heroes of Might and Magic 3: Complete. Horn of the Abyss is an expansion for Heroes of Might and Magic III that adds new factions, campaigns, creatures, artifacts, and numerous quality-of-life improvements, such as a working multiplayer lobby system. Phobos mod for DOOM 3. The Phobos Mod for DOOM is a prequel to the original game, delivering a narrative-driven, classic-style FPS experience with modern enhancements, set during the UAC's initial experiments on Mars' moon Phobos, adding many new gameplay hours. Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines Unofficial Patch for Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines. The Vampire: The Masquerade – Bloodlines Unofficial Patch does not only fixes numerous bugs left unresolved by the original developers but also restores and enhances cut content such as quests, levels, characters, and dialogue. Fallout: London One-Click experience for Fallout 4. You already had a chance to experience how great Fallout: London is – an alternate standalone storyline set in the United Kingdom, during the apocalypse events from Fallout 4. Now though, you can boot it with just one click – no launchers, no extra steps, just pure fun. Following that, the GOG team is working on introducing support for the Skyblivion total conversion mod when it releases later this year. This will let those who own The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim Anniversary Edition on the platform install and jump into the modded Oblivion experience on the Skyrim engine easily. Check out the newly set-up mods platform on the GOG store by heading over here.
    • Anno 117: Pax Romana gets a November release date as Ubisoft unveils Governor's Edition by Pulasthi Ariyasinghe Ubisoft's long-running city-building and management franchise, Anno, was first revealed to be receiving another entry back in 2024. While it has taken some time, Anno 117: Pax Romana finally received a firm release date today during the 2025 PC Gaming Show event just as pre-orders open up. Catch the latest cinematic trailer above. Anno 117: Pax Romana lands on November 13, 2025, letting fans loose on the Roman settlement-building venture. The game's first gameplay was revealed just a few weeks ago as well, which you can watch by heading here. As new features, the title is adding a province selection mechanic at the start of each game, a religion system, a research tree, land combat, modular shipbuilding, and, most importantly, diagonal roads and building construction. Those who pre-order the game will also receive a Builder Pack from today. This will carry the Wolf player sigil, a matching battle standard, the Town Crier statue, as well as the Capitoline Wolf statue. At the same time, a Gold Edition is available for pre-order that bundles the Year 1 Pass with the base game. This will carry access to three DLC packs, and judging by the teaser image, it looks like players will be heading to Egypt for new adventures as part of the expanded content. For fans who may want something a little more comprehensive, Ubisoft also unveiled the Anno 117 Governor’s Edition. This special edition comes with these collector's items and digital goodies: Collector's items: Amphitheatre 3D Puzzle (36 x 31 x 13 cm) 84-page Artbook featuring concept art and behind-the-scenes content - cover design elected by community! Forged Anno Symbol (approx. 7 cm) Albion & Latium Coins Steelbook® case - design elected by community! Town Crier's Letter (21 x 30 cm) Tesserae Works Blueprint (42 x 59 cm) 3 Lithographs (30 x 15 cm) Digital Content: Base Game Year 1 Pass, including: 3 upcoming DLCs Additional in-game content The Builder Pack: 3 exclusive ornaments 1 player sigil Anno 117: Pax Romana is slated to hit Steam, Ubisoft Connect, Epic Games Store, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation 5 platforms. Pre-orders are now available starting at $59.99 for the standard edition. Ubisoft+ subscribers will also receive the title as a day-one drop. In addition to the base game, members will also receive access to the upcoming DLC packs at launch for no extra cost.
  • Recent Achievements

    • First Post
      George Almeyda earned a badge
      First Post
    • Reacting Well
      BlakeBringer earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Reacting Well
      Lazy_Placeholder earned a badge
      Reacting Well
    • Dedicated
      Epaminombas earned a badge
      Dedicated
    • Veteran
      Yonah went up a rank
      Veteran
  • Popular Contributors

    1. 1
      +primortal
      468
    2. 2
      +FloatingFatMan
      267
    3. 3
      ATLien_0
      237
    4. 4
      snowy owl
      218
    5. 5
      Edouard
      171
  • Tell a friend

    Love Neowin? Tell a friend!