| / | Primary directory of the entire filesystem hierarchy |
| /bin | Essential executable programs to start and run the system. This directory is linked (shortcut) to /usr/bin |
| /boot | Files required to boot the system. The kernel and support files live here |
| /dev | Files used to represent the hardware devices installed on the system. Files are dynamically generated at boot time |
| /etc | System-wide configuration files |
| /home | User home directories, including personal settings, files, etc |
| /lib | System library files. Kernel modules are stored in /lib/modules |
| /media | Contains subdirectories used as mount points for removable media such as CDs, DVDs, USB sticks, etc |
| /mnt | Mount point for temporarily mounted filesystems |
| /opt | Suggested location for optional application software packages (third party applications) |
| /proc | Virtual pseudo-filesystem that provides information about the system and processes running on it. It is a dynamic memory-based directory. Can be used to alter system parameters |
| /run | Runtime variable data that contains information about the system since it was booted (data associated with running processes). This directory is cleared at the start of the boot process |
| /sys | Provides information (device, driver and some kernel) about the system and processes running on it. Can be used to alter system parameters |
| /root | Home directory for the root user |
| /sbin | Essential system binaries used by the root or other system administrators for booting, restoring, or repairing the operating system |
| /srv | Data for services (HTTP and FTP) running on the server |
| /tmp | Temporary files created by user applications |
| /usr | Multi-user applications, utilities and data; theoretically read-only |
| /var | Variable data that changes during system operation, including your system log files |