Definition

root directory

In a computer file system that is organized as a hierarchy or tree, the root directory is the directory that includes all other directories. (Unlike a real tree, a tree file system has only one root!) In UNIX-based as well as in other operating systems, the root directory has no name. It is simply represented by the special character that separates directories in a file system .

In UNIX-based systems, the root directory is represented simply as:

Only a few special users of a shared operating system will be given the authority to access all file directories and files under the root directory. In a UNIX environment, the special user is known as an avatar.

Related glossary terms: V.90, mail user agent (MUA), VxWorks, virtual network adapter, V.xx, home server, LANDesk Client Manager (LDCM), HomeRF (home radio frequency), two-way server, Zmodem protocol

This was last updated in September 2005

Posted by: Margaret Rouse

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