What is Folder (computing)?
When talking about [[file system]]s, a '''folder''' (also called '''directory''', or '''catalog''') is a way to organize [[computer file]]s. A folder is a storage space, or container, where many files can be placed into groups and organize the computer. A folder can also contain other folders. For many [[computer software]] applications, there is a '''current working directory'''. This is the folder that the application runs in. In [[Unix]] and [[Linux]], a directory is a special type of file. Folders can be put together to make a ''[[filesystem]]'' and are laid out like a [[tree]]. The folders inside folders are like branches and sub-branches off the tree trunk. This idea is used by the software to allow the user to navigate the folders. A computer file, such as a [[spreadsheet]] or music file can only be in one folder directly. This folder, however, can be inside other folders. On some [[operating system]]s, shortcuts or links can be made from one folder to another to make it appear that one file or folder is contained in two different parent folders. On [[Unix]] systems, this is called a ''symbolic link'', and is similar in function to a [[hyperlink]]. Folders are inspired by a real-life item called a [[file folder]]. [[Category:Software]]