How to Create Symbolic Links in Linux | ln Command Explained

Want to simplify file paths or redirect one location to another in Linux? In this tutorial, you’ll learn **how to create symbolic links (symlinks) in Linux** using the `ln -s` command. Symbolic links are powerful tools that act like shortcuts or references to files and directories—great for organizing systems, managing shared libraries, or setting up environment paths.

We’ll walk through everything you need to know: the difference between **hard links and symbolic links**, how to create and remove them, and common use cases for symlinks in development and system administration.

**What Is a Symbolic Link?**
A symbolic link (also known as a symlink or soft link) is a file that points to another file or directory. It’s like a shortcut, and it allows you to access the original content through a new path.

**Basic Syntax:**

```bash
ln -s [TARGET] [LINK_NAME]
```

* `TARGET`: The original file or directory
* `LINK_NAME`: The name/location of the symbolic link you’re creating

**Examples:**

**1. Create a symbolic link to a file:**

```bash
ln -s /home/user/data.txt ~/shortcut-to-data.txt
```

**2. Create a symbolic link to a directory:**

```bash
ln -s /opt/myapp/config ~/config-link
```

**3. View symlink target using `ls`:**

```bash
ls -l
```

**4. Remove a symbolic link:**

```bash
rm symlink-name
```

**Important Notes:**

* Symbolic links can point to non-existent targets (dangling symlinks)
* If you move or delete the original file, the symlink will break
* Use absolute paths for more reliable links
* Use relative paths if you need portability within directories

**Common Use Cases:**

* Redirect configuration directories (e.g., `.config`, `.vimrc`)
* Share files across multiple locations without duplication
* Point versioned binaries (like `python3.10` → `python`)
* Organize project files or environment folders

**Pro Tip:** Use `readlink -f symlink-name` to see the full resolved path of a symlink.

Got questions or want help with a specific symlink setup? Drop your scenario in the comments! And don’t forget to **like**, **subscribe**, and **share** for more Linux tips and command-line tutorials.

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