mount and umount in Linux CLI - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What does the mount command do in Linux?

The mount command attaches a storage device or filesystem to a specific directory so you can access its files.

beginner

What is the purpose of the umount command?

The umount command safely detaches a mounted filesystem or device from the directory, making it inaccessible until mounted again.

beginner

Why should you always use umount before unplugging a USB drive?

Unmounting ensures all data is written and prevents data loss or corruption by safely disconnecting the device.

beginner

How do you mount a USB drive located at /dev/sdb1 to the directory /mnt/usb?

Use the command: mount /dev/sdb1 /mnt/usb to attach the USB drive to that directory.

intermediate

What happens if you try to mount a device to a directory that is not empty?

The contents of the directory become hidden while the device is mounted there. When unmounted, the original directory contents reappear.

What command do you use to detach a mounted filesystem?

A unmount

B mount

C umount

D detach

The correct command to detach a mounted filesystem is umount. Note it is spelled without the 'n'.

Which directory is commonly used as a mount point for temporary devices?

A /home

B /mnt

C /etc

D /var

The /mnt directory is commonly used as a mount point for temporary devices like USB drives.

What will happen if you unplug a USB drive without unmounting it first?

A Data loss or corruption may occur

B Nothing, it is safe

C The system will automatically unmount it

D The USB drive will format itself

Unplugging without unmounting can cause data loss or corruption because data may still be writing.

Which command shows all currently mounted filesystems?

A umount

B lsusb

C df

D mount

Running mount without arguments lists all currently mounted filesystems.

To mount a device with read-only access, which option do you add?

A -o ro

B -r

C -w

D -o rw

Use -o ro option with mount to mount a device as read-only.

Explain in your own words what mounting and unmounting a device means and why it is important.

Think about plugging in and safely removing a USB drive.

Describe the steps and commands you would use to safely use a USB drive on a Linux system.

Consider what you do from plugging in to unplugging.