What is the purpose of a Linux symbolic link?
A symbolic link in Linux is a special type of file that points to another file or directory. Its purpose is to create a shortcut or alias to the original file or directory. Symbolic links allow us to conveniently access, operate, or reference the original file or directory without altering it.
Specifically, the role of symbolic links includes:
- Creating shortcuts: Soft links allow us to create a shortcut that points to a file or directory without actually moving the original file or directory. This way, we can easily access, copy, move, rename, or delete the original file or directory through the soft link.
- Simplified paths: Soft links can simplify long and complex paths into a more memorable and user-friendly one. By creating soft links, we can link commonly used files or directories to a common location for easy and quick access.
- Cross-file system access: Soft links can span across different file systems or disk partitions. This means we can create soft links on different storage devices to achieve file sharing or cross-device access.
- Shared library linking: In Linux systems, symbolic linking can also be used to link shared library files. Using symbolic links, we can link the shared library files to the location required by the program, allowing the program to correctly link and use the shared libraries.
In summary, the purpose of Linux symbolic links is to provide a convenient, flexible, and secure way to manipulate, reference, or reference files or directories, simplify paths, and improve the maintainability and availability of the system.
