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Why might the df command show different disk usage values than the actual file sizes on the filesystem?

hard📝 Conceptual Q10 of 15
Linux CLI - Disk and Storage
Why might the df command show different disk usage values than the actual file sizes on the filesystem?
ABecause df only shows free space, not used space
BBecause df counts reserved blocks and filesystem overhead
CBecause df does not update until reboot
DBecause df ignores hidden files
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:

  1. Step 1: Understand df's calculation method

    df shows disk usage including reserved blocks for system and filesystem overhead.

  2. Step 2: Analyze other options

    df shows both used and free space, updates live, and counts all files including hidden ones.

  3. Final Answer:

    Because df counts reserved blocks and filesystem overhead -> Option B

  4. Quick Check:

    Reserved blocks cause difference = B [OK]
Quick Trick: df includes reserved space, so totals differ from file sizes [OK]
Common Mistakes:
  • Thinking df ignores hidden files
  • Assuming df output is always exact file size sum
  • Believing df output updates only on reboot

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