root directory

Top-level folder location

The root directory is the top-level folder in a computer's file system, from which all other directories branch.

It's the starting point of the directory tree, containing system folders and serving as the base path for navigating to any file: The configuration file should be placed in the root directory.

On Unix systems it's represented by a forward slash (/), on Windows by a drive letter (C:\).

Related
  • folderContainer for loose papers
  • home folderDefault personal storage location
  • pathRoute for traveling
  • homeOne's personal residence
  • baseSupporting bottom structure

forward slash · slash · tree · file system · filesystem · parent · hierarchy · trunk · origin · top · drive · mount · navigate · command line · cd · absolute · source · anchor

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filesystem hierarchy position

root directorysubdirectory

Folder inside another folder

subfolder · home directory · parent directory

containment relationship

root directoryfile

Stored collection of data

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