find Command Examples in Linux¶

Introduction¶

These examples show practical ways to use find on a Linux terminal. Each example is written so you can adapt it for administration or troubleshooting.

Example 1: Basic Usage¶

find /etc -name passwd

This is the simplest form of the command and is a good starting point before adding options.

Example 2: Common Admin Task¶

find /var/log -type f -name "*.log"

This example reflects a common task on RHEL, Rocky Linux, AlmaLinux, or similar systems.

Example 3: Useful Option¶

find /var -type f -size +100M

This option helps narrow the result, change behavior, or handle a more realistic target.

Example 4: Real-World Scenario¶

find /home -mtime +30 -type f

Use this pattern when the task moves beyond a single basic command.

Example 5: Verification¶

find /tmp -maxdepth 1 -type f

Example output:

/etc/passwd

Common Mistakes¶

• Forgetting to quote wildcard patterns such as *.log, causing the shell to expand them too early.
• Using -delete before printing and reviewing the matches.
• Searching from / without limiting scope, which can be slow and noisy.

Quick Reference¶

find /etc -name passwd
find /var/log -type f -name "*.log"
find /var -type f -size +100M
find /home -mtime +30 -type f
find /tmp -maxdepth 1 -type f

Related Guides¶

• What is find?
• find files by name explained
• Find Files by Size and Time
• find interview questions

Summary¶

Good find usage means choosing the right option, keeping the target clear, and verifying the result with output you can explain.