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How to create a new file system in Linux?

Creating a new file system in Linux involves several steps, including preparing the storage device, formatting it with a specific file system type, and mounting it for use. Here's a detailed explanation with an example:

Step 1: Identify the Storage Device

First, you need to identify the storage device you want to use for the new file system. Use the lsblk or fdisk -l command to list all available storage devices.

lsblk

This will display a list of devices like /dev/sda, /dev/sdb, etc. Identify the device you want to use, for example, /dev/sdb.

Step 2: Partition the Device (Optional)

If the device is not already partitioned, you can create a new partition using fdisk or parted.

sudo fdisk /dev/sdb

Follow the prompts to create a new partition. For simplicity, you can use the entire disk without partitioning.

Step 3: Format the Device with a File System

Once the device is ready, format it with a file system. Common file systems include ext4, xfs, and btrfs. Here's an example using ext4:

sudo mkfs.ext4 /dev/sdb

If you created a partition (e.g., /dev/sdb1), format the partition instead:

sudo mkfs.ext4 /dev/sdb1

Step 4: Mount the File System

Create a mount point and mount the file system:

sudo mkdir /mnt/mynewfs
sudo mount /dev/sdb /mnt/mynewfs

If you used a partition, mount the partition:

sudo mkdir /mnt/mynewfs
sudo mount /dev/sdb1 /mnt/mynewfs

Step 5: Make the Mount Persistent (Optional)

To ensure the file system is mounted automatically on boot, add an entry to the /etc/fstab file:

echo '/dev/sdb /mnt/mynewfs ext4 defaults 0 0' | sudo tee -a /etc/fstab

For a partition:

echo '/dev/sdb1 /mnt/mynewfs ext4 defaults 0 0' | sudo tee -a /etc/fstab

Example Scenario

Suppose you have a new hard drive /dev/sdb and you want to create an ext4 file system on it:

  1. Identify the device:
    lsblk
    
  2. Format the device:
    sudo mkfs.ext4 /dev/sdb
    
  3. Mount the file system:
    sudo mkdir /mnt/mynewfs
    sudo mount /dev/sdb /mnt/mynewfs
    
  4. Make the mount persistent:
    echo '/dev/sdb /mnt/mynewfs ext4 defaults 0 0' | sudo tee -a /etc/fstab
    

For enterprise-level storage solutions and file systems, consider using Tencent Cloud's CBS (Cloud Block Storage) service, which provides scalable and high-performance block storage for your Linux instances. CBS supports various file system types and can be easily integrated with your Linux environment.