# How to use the linux ln command

> Canonical: https://jethost.com/kb/how-to-use-the-linux-ln-command/ · Last modified: 2026-08-20T06:50:30+00:00

The **Linux ln command** creates links between files, letting one name point to another file or folder. Links are handy for sharing a single file across locations or giving a long path a short, convenient name. In this article, we will show you the basic usage of the Linux ln command with examples.

## Hard links vs. symbolic links

There are two kinds of links. A **hard link** is a second name for the exact same data, so both names are equal and the data survives until every link is removed. A **symbolic link** (symlink) is a small pointer to another path, much like a shortcut; if the original is deleted, the symlink breaks. Symbolic links are the more common choice, because they can span file systems and point to directories.

## Create a symbolic link

First, use the `-s` flag to create a symbolic link. Name the target first, then the link:

```
ln -s /path/to/target linkname
```

For example, to point `public_html/latest` at a versioned folder:

```
ln -s /home/user/releases/v2 /home/user/public_html/latest
```

## Create a hard link

Next, omit `-s` to create a hard link. Both names then refer to the same file data:

```
ln target.txt hardlink.txt
```

## Update or overwrite a link

Finally, to repoint an existing link, add `-f` (force) so `ln` replaces it, and `-n` so it does not follow an existing symlinked directory:

```
ln -sfn /path/to/new/target linkname
```

You can check where a symlink points with `ls -l`, which shows the link followed by an arrow to its target. A common use of the Linux ln command in web hosting is pointing a folder such as `public_html/current` to the latest release, so you can deploy a new version and switch the link in a single step. If a link ever breaks, simply recreate it with `ln -sfn` and the new path.

## Need more help?

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