I'm looking for a straightforward way to control which files are stored on different drives in my Linux setup. I have three drives: a 250GB SSD for my operating system and core applications, a 500GB SSD dedicated to games that take longer to load, and a 1TB HDD meant for mass storage, such as pictures, music, videos, and retro games that don't require the SSD's speed. I want a reliable method to manage where programs are installed and ensure that specific types of files land on their designated drives.
2 Answers
To manage your files effectively, consider using mount points and symbolic links. For your home folders — like pictures and videos — this approach works well. Just note that for most software installations, Linux package managers tend to place files in fixed locations, so you won't be able to specify a drive for installation. However, since you're likely putting your OS and core programs on the 250GB SSD, this limitation should be manageable. For games, like those on Steam, you can set additional library folders to choose where to install them. Just remember to save your mass storage files — like media and retro games — directly on the 1TB HDD.
Think of Linux as an evolution of Unix; it has its own conventions. Software typically installs in predetermined directories, and moving them around isn't straightforward. If something doesn't fit your needs, you can use symbolic links to redirect files, but it's generally best to adhere to the standard filesystem layout for cleanliness and consistency. You can change locations for directories by linking them, but you should ensure that everything remains where the system expects it. Remember, the designers behind this filesystem had good reasons for their choices!
Exactly! With Steam, you can create different "steam library folders" to install games wherever you want, plus you can move games between these folders whenever you like.