[Solved] You run du -h /home/user but get an error: "du: invalid option -- 'h'". What is the likely cause? — Ans: The du command does not support the -h option on this system | Linux CLI

Linux CLI - Disk and Storage

You run du -h /home/user but get an error: "du: invalid option -- 'h'". What is the likely cause?

AThe directory /home/user does not exist

BYou need to run the command as root

CThe <code>du</code> command does not support the <code>-h</code> option on this system

DYou must use <code>--human-readable</code> instead of <code>-h</code>

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Analyze the error message
The error says -h is invalid, meaning this du version lacks that option.
Step 2: Check other options
Running as root or directory existence wouldn't cause invalid option error; -h is standard, no need for long form.
Final Answer:
The du command does not support the -h option on this system -> Option C
Quick Check:
Invalid option error means unsupported flag [OK]

Quick Trick: Invalid option means your du version lacks that flag [OK]

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You run du -h /home/user but get an error: "du: invalid option -- 'h'". What is the likely cause?