The UNIX directory tree is structured based on the type of use of the files. A typical UNIX setup includes the following directories under the root directory (/):
| Directory | Contents |
|---|---|
| /bin |
Essential executables, used by all users |
| /boot |
Files needed to start the system, including the kernel |
| /dev |
Interfaces to system hardware (devices) |
| /etc |
Configuration files of all software and the system
itself |
| /home |
Users' home directories, which include personal files |
| /lib |
Essential libraries and kernel modules (drivers) |
| /mnt |
Mount-points of foreign filesystems (see below) |
| /opt |
Optional files and programs (usually empty) |
| /proc |
Interface to the kernel and running processes |
| /root |
Home directory of the root user |
| /sbin |
Essential system executables for use mostly by root |
| /tmp |
Temporary files, writable by all users |
| /usr |
All non-essential programs and program data |
| /var |
Variable system files, such as logs, mail, and print
jobs |