[Solved] You run du -sh /etc /var but get an error: "du: invalid option -- 's'". What is the likely cause? — Ans: The -s option is not supported by your du version | Linux CLI

Linux CLI - Disk and Storage

You run du -sh /etc /var but get an error: "du: invalid option -- 's'". What is the likely cause?

AThe <code>-s</code> option is not supported by your <code>du</code> version

BYou typed <code>-sh</code> as separate options instead of combined

CYou need to run the command as root

DThe directories do not exist

Step-by-Step Solution

Solution:

Step 1: Analyze the error message
"invalid option -- 's'" means the du command does not recognize -s.
Step 2: Understand version differences
Some older or minimal du versions lack -s support.
Final Answer:
The -s option is not supported by your du version -> Option A
Quick Check:
Error about option = unsupported option [OK]

Quick Trick: Check du --version if options fail [OK]

Common Mistakes:

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You run du -sh /etc /var but get an error: "du: invalid option -- 's'". What is the likely cause?