Symlink

Noun · Development

Definitions

  1. A symbolic link — a special file that acts as a pointer to another file or directory. Unlike hard links, symlinks can cross filesystems and point to directories. Commonly used for managing multiple versions (e.g., /usr/bin/python → python3.11), and in deployment strategies.

    In plain English: A shortcut file that points to another file or folder, like a redirect in the filesystem.

    Example: "The current release is a symlink — deploying just means pointing /var/www/app at the new release directory."

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