What is a Directory in Linux?

A directory in Linux is a special type of file that acts as a container for other files and directories. Think of it like a folder in a graphical operating system. Linux uses a hierarchical file system, starting from the root directory /, and everything else (including devices, processes, user data) branches off from there.

Each directory contains entries (filenames) that refer to either files or other directories. Directories help organize the system and user data in a logical and manageable way.

Key directories in Linux include:

• /home – user directories
• /etc – configuration files
• /bin – essential binaries
• /var – variable data like logs
• /tmp – temporary files
• /usr – user-level programs and data

Create a Directory

Command: mkdir (Make Directory)

Basic Syntax:

mkdir [OPTIONS] DIRECTORY_NAME

Example:

mkdir testdir

Creates a directory named testdir in the current working directory.

Commonly Used Options:

• -p – Creates parent directories as needed.

  mkdir -p /home/user/documents/reports/2025

  This creates the entire path if it doesn’t already exist.

• -v – Verbose, shows what is being done.

  mkdir -v newdir

Output:

When successful, mkdir does not show output unless used with -v.

Remove a Directory

Command: rmdir (Remove Directory)

Basic Syntax:

rmdir [OPTIONS] DIRECTORY_NAME

Example:

rmdir testdir

This removes the empty directory testdir.

Important: rmdir only works on empty directories.

Removing Non-Empty Directories:

Command: rm -r (Recursive remove)

rm -r dirname

Use -i for confirmation prompt before deletion:

rm -ri dirname

Use -f to force delete without prompt:

rm -rf dirname

Be Cautious:

rm -rf is very powerful and dangerous. It will delete files and directories recursively without warning.

Summary Table