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Updated on 2025-03-10

Summary of methods for checking file size in Linux system

summary

In Linux operating systems, mastering how to efficiently check file size is a necessary skill for every developer and system administrator. This article introduces four methods to check the size of Linux files in detail, including using the ls command, du command, stat command, and graphical interface tools. Whether you are a newbie Linux or an experienced expert, this article will provide you with a clear and concise operating guide to ensure you can easily manage and analyze file sizes. Through this article, you will be able to effectively optimize storage space and improve work efficiency.

introduction

In Linux system management and daily use, understanding the size of files and directories is crucial for resource management and optimization. Different commands and tools can help us view this information in different ways, making more rational storage and backup decisions. Next, let's explore these four powerful ways to ensure you can quickly find and manage file sizes when needed.

Content of the text

Method 1: Use the ls command

The ls command is one of the most commonly used file list commands in Linux, and it can also be used to view file sizes.

Detailed steps

  • Open the terminal.
  • Enter the following command to view the size of the file in the current directory:
ls -lh
  • -lOptions indicate the display of file information in a list.
  • -hOptions indicate the display of file size in a more readable way (such as KB, MB).

Example

-rw-r--r-- 1 user group 1.2K Mar 10 10:00 

Method 2: Use the du command

duThe (disk usage) command is mainly used to check the disk usage of a directory, but can also be used to view the size of a single file.

Detailed steps

  • Open the terminal.
  • Enter the following command to view the size of the specified file:
du -sh /path/to/your/file
  • -sOptions represent summarizing the size of the specified file or directory.
  • -hOptions display sizes in an easy-to-read format.

Example

4.0K    /path/to/your/file

Method 3: Use the stat command

statCommands are used to display status information of a file or file system, including file size.

Detailed steps

  • Open the terminal.
  • Enter the following command to view the details of the file:
stat /path/to/your/file

Example

  File: /path/to/your/file
  Size: 4096      	Blocks: 8          IO Block: 4096   regular file

Method 4: Graphic interface tool

If you prefer to use graphical interfaces, most Linux desktop environments (such as GNOME, KDE) provide file managers, and you can view file sizes through file properties.

Detailed steps

  • Open File Manager.
  • Right-click the file you want to check and select "Properties" or similar options.
  • View file size information in the pop-up window.

QA link

Q1: duandlsWhat is the difference between commands when displaying file sizes?

A1: duThe command shows the size of disk space occupied by the file, andlsThe command shows the actual size of the file. These two sizes may vary due to how the file system is allocated.

Q2: How to view the size of the entire directory?

A2: UseduOrder. For example,du -sh /path/to/directoryThe total size of the specified directory can be displayed.

summary

This article introduces four methods to check the size of Linux files, each of which has its applicable scenarios. Mastering these methods will help you better manage files and directories and optimize storage resources.

Table summary

method Command or action Applicable scenarios
lsOrder ls -lh Check the file size in the current directory
duOrder du -sh /path/to/your/file Check the disk usage of files or directories
statOrder stat /path/to/your/file View detailed status information of the file
Graphic interface tool File properties view View file size under the graphical interface

Summarize

Mastering different file size checking methods is crucial to efficiently manage Linux systems. Whether through command-line tools or graphical interfaces, the right methods and tools can help us easily obtain the information we need and make informed management decisions.

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