Overview
Based on the GIO library, gio can perform operations on local file systems as well as remote locations (FTP, SMB, etc.) and virtual file systems. In addition to common file management tasks, it provides features like mount management and emptying the trash.
Key Features
- File copy/move/delete
- File information retrieval
- Mount/unmount management
- Trash management
- URI schema support
Main Options
The gio command performs its functions through various subcommands. Each subcommand can have its own unique options.
File Management
Information and Open
Mount Management
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Description:
`gio` Executes the command.
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Usage Examples
Here are a few examples of using the gio command.
Checking File Information
touch document.txt
gio info document.txt
rm document.txtDisplays detailed information for the 'document.txt' file in the current directory.
Moving a File to Trash
touch old_report.pdf
gio trash old_report.pdfMoves the 'old_report.pdf' file to the trash.
Listing Directory Contents
gio list .Lists the contents of the current directory.
Copying a File
echo "Hello" > source.txt
gio copy source.txt destination.txt
rm source.txt destination.txtCopies 'source.txt' to 'destination.txt'.
Opening a File with Default Application
gio open image.jpgOpens 'image.jpg' with the system's default image viewer. (Requires an actual file to work)
Installation
gio is typically provided as part of the GLib development libraries or installed with desktop environments (e.g., GNOME). If it's not installed by default, you can install it using the following commands.
Debian/Ubuntu
sudo apt update && sudo apt install libglib2.0-binFedora
sudo dnf install glib2Arch Linux
sudo pacman -S glib2Tips & Notes
gio is a powerful tool, but there are a few points to keep in mind.
Key Tips
- **Utilize URI Schemes**: gio supports various URI schemes like `file://`, `ftp://`, `smb://`, allowing access to remote resources.
- **GNOME Environment Integration**: It is tightly integrated with file managers (Nautilus) in the GNOME desktop environment, enabling command-line operations similar to GUI actions.
- **Caution with Permanent Deletion**: The `gio rm` command permanently deletes files without sending them to the trash, so use it with caution.
- **Detailed Help**: For more detailed information on each subcommand, you can use `gio help <subcommand>`.