What Is a Directory?

A directory is a special kind of file that contains entries that point to other files and directories. Directories, like MPE groups, help applications and users to organize files in a logical manner on the system. A directory contained within another directory is also called a subdirectory. A directory that contains other directories is called a parent directory. Directories, subdirectories, and files form a structure for the file system. A directory entry associates a file name with a file.

MPE/iX has four types of directories:

The structure of the HP 3000 file system traditionally allowed for a three-level hierarchy made up of accounts, groups, and files. Files could exist only below MPE groups. The directory structure on MPE/iX is hierarchical (like a tree structure). You can create directories in groups and accounts that can, in turn, hold files and subdirectories.

The hierarchical directory structure has a common root, called the root directory and is denoted by a leading slash (/). The root is the foundation of the HP 3000 directory structure. In traditional MPE terms, the root is the parent of all accounts. Files, directories, and accounts may be located in the root directory.

	NOTE: You can put files under accounts in addition to being able to put them under groups, directories, and root.

Figure 6-1 “Example of Hierarchical Directory Structure” shows an example hierarchical directory structure.

Figure 6-1 Example of Hierarchical Directory Structure