Linux Commands / IT Support Guides
Navigate Linux paths with pwd and ls
A command that works in one terminal can fail in another because the working directory differs. Establish the actual path before reading or changing files.
Environment and inputs: Linux · Bash-compatible shell; package and service names vary by distribution
Try the diagnostic command
Use the stated shell and platform. Replace sample domains, addresses, services and paths with values from the system you are authorized to support.
pwd
ls -lahHow to read the result
pwd identifies the current working directory. The long listing shows ownership, permissions and hidden entries; human-readable sizes help distinguish small configuration files from large artifacts.
What to do next
Compare the directory with the application's documented path. Use absolute paths in support notes so another engineer can repeat the check without inheriting your shell state.
Before you make a change
A symlink can make a displayed path differ from the physical location. Confirm the target before any later write or deletion.