CompTIA Linux+ (XK0-006)System ManagementEasy

According to the Filesystem Hierarchy Standard (FHS), which directory contains host-specific system configuration files, including /etc/passwd and /etc/fstab?

  1. A/usr
  2. B/etc
  3. C/var
  4. D/opt
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: B. /etc

The FHS defines /etc as the location for host-specific, static configuration files that are not executable binaries, such as /etc/passwd, /etc/fstab, and /etc/hosts.

Why the other options are wrong

  • A. /usr holds shared, read-only user program files and libraries.
  • C. /var holds variable data like logs and spool files, not configuration.
  • D. /opt is used for optional third-party or add-on software packages.

FHS /etc Directory

The /etc directory stores host-specific static configuration files used by the system and installed applications.

  • Contains /etc/passwd, /etc/fstab, /etc/hosts
  • No binaries should be stored here
  • Configuration is host-specific, not shared across machines

Memory trick: 'etc = Every Configuration Textfile Center.'

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