whatis root-directory
Root Directory (/)
Also known as: /, slash
The top of the Linux directory tree, written as a single slash /, under which every file and mounted disk appears.
What Is the Root Directory (/) in Linux?
Linux has no drive letters. The root filesystem is mounted at /, and other disks, partitions, and network shares are mounted at directories somewhere beneath it.
Do not confuse / with /root, which is the root user's home directory. Commands that operate recursively on / deserve extra care, which is why rm refuses rm -rf / by default.
Learn more about Root Directory (/)
- The Root Directory (/) Explained Every Linux filesystem starts at a single directory called root, written as /. This guide explains what root actually is, what lives directly inside it, and why Linux has no drive letters.
- Linux File System Hierarchy Explained Linux puts every file in a specific place for a reason. This guide walks through the Filesystem Hierarchy Standard, explains what belongs where, and covers the modern changes that have reshaped the traditional layout.