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When creating a shortcut in windows it makes a .lnk file.

I have researched and it seems these are openable in linux(with some tweaking). Does Linux have an equivalent? If so, whats the extension?

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2 Answers

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Linux doesn't work with file extensions. However, you can make a shortcut on Linux using "symbolic links". They are something like a "pointer" to a file.

Take a look at here to see how to do it:

How do I create a symbolic link?

ln -s [TARGET DIRECTORY OR FILE] ./[SHORTCUT]

For example:

ln -s /usr/local/apache/logs ./logs
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However, unlike a Windows shortcut, a symbolic link will break when the target file is moved... which is pretty much the principal reason you'd use a shortcut. So strictly speaking a linux symlink is not the equivalent of a Windows shortcut, it's the equivalent of a Windows symlink. – Factor Mystic Jul 14 '11 at 19:45
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Symlinks are my favorite tool for keeping my files organized. Linux symlinks are kept in sync with the target file no matter what program reads them! – Nathan Moos Jul 15 '11 at 0:09
up vote 21 down vote

Linux has two types of links:

  • .desktop files: created by graphical file managers. They are similar to Windows .lnk shortcuts, minus the automatic updating. They, like shortcuts, only work inside the GUI file manager program.

  • Symbolic links: created with ln -s target link on Linux and mklink link target on Windows. These can be used transparently by any program.

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Oh, the superiority of Posix-based systems! – Roy Tinker Jul 14 '11 at 17:18
@Roy: There's always Plan9. – grawity Jul 14 '11 at 17:49
That looks interesting, @grawity. I'll check it out. Thanks! – Roy Tinker Jul 14 '11 at 17:57
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there is the third one, hard link – Lie Ryan Jul 14 '11 at 18:41
@Lie: Yes, but it's not very widely used as a .lnk alternative due to the limitations. – grawity Jul 14 '11 at 19:12

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