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You run mkfs.ext4 /dev/sdg1 but get an error: 'device is busy'. What is the likely cause?

medium📝 Debug Q6 of 15
Linux CLI - Disk and Storage
You run mkfs.ext4 /dev/sdg1 but get an error: 'device is busy'. What is the likely cause?
AThe device does not exist
Bext4 is not supported on this device
CYou typed the command incorrectly
DThe partition is mounted and in use
Step-by-Step Solution
Solution:

  1. Step 1: Interpret 'device is busy' error

    This error usually means the partition is currently mounted or used by the system.

  2. Step 2: Rule out other causes

    If device did not exist, error would differ. Command syntax is correct. ext4 is widely supported.

  3. Final Answer:

    The partition is mounted and in use -> Option D

  4. Quick Check:

    Device busy = mounted partition [OK]
Quick Trick: Unmount partition before formatting to avoid 'device busy' [OK]
Common Mistakes:
  • Assuming device missing
  • Blaming syntax error
  • Thinking ext4 unsupported

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