mkdir

Overview

The mkdir (make directory) command creates new directories. It can create multiple directories at once and create parent directories as needed.

Syntax

mkdir [options] directory...

Common Options

Option Description
-p Create parent directories as needed
-m mode Set file mode/permissions
-v Print message for each directory
-Z Set SELinux security context
--help Display help message
--version Output version information
-context Set complete SELinux context

Key Use Cases

  1. Create new directories
  2. Create directory hierarchies
  3. Set directory permissions
  4. Create multiple directories
  5. Create parent directories

Examples with Explanations

Example 1: Basic Usage

mkdir new_directory

Create a single directory

Example 2: Create Parents

mkdir -p parent/child/grandchild

Create directory hierarchy

Example 3: Set Permissions

mkdir -m 755 secure_dir

Create directory with specific permissions

Understanding Output

  • No output by default
  • With -v:
    • Created directory messages
  • Error messages for:
    • Permission denied
    • File exists
    • Invalid path
    • No space

Common Usage Patterns

  1. Create multiple directories:

    mkdir dir1 dir2 dir3

  2. Create with parents:

    mkdir -p /path/to/new/dir

  3. Create with permissions:

    mkdir -m 700 private_dir

Performance Analysis

  • Fast operation
  • Minimal system impact
  • Parent creation overhead
  • Permission checking
  • Directory entry updates

Additional Resources