Linux 'rm' Command Usage

Overview

This lecture explains how to use the rm command in Linux to remove files and directories, emphasizing caution to prevent accidental deletion.

Removing Files

• Use the rm command in Linux to delete files, similar to deleting files in Windows.
• Example: rm text1 removes the file named "text1" from the current directory.
• Attempting to remove protected files or directories may result in an error message.

Removing Directories

• Directories (folders) require recursive removal with the rm -r command.
• Example: rm -r misc deletes the "misc" directory and its contents.

Caution When Using rm

• Accidentally deleting important files or folders is possible with rm, so always double-check the target before executing the command.

Key Terms & Definitions

• rm — Command in Linux used to remove (delete) files and directories.
• Recursive (-r) option — Allows rm to delete directories and their contents.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Practice using the rm and rm -r commands in a controlled environment.
• Always review the files or directories you are about to remove to avoid accidental deletion.