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# App B: BeOS Directory Structure

This is an overview of the directory (or folder) structure of the BeOS system. The directory structure of the BeOS is designed not only to organize files, but also to improve system reliability and pave the way for multiuser capability in future versions of the BeOS.

When you first install the BeOS, the Tracker displays seven directories or folders that are created, as shown in the screen below:

Two additional directories (desktop and var) are not displayed in the Tracker but are accessible through the Terminal or the File panel. Desktop is the directory for files placed on the desktop. var is where temporary files such as spool files are stored by the system and applications.

Directory | Contains
apps | Stores links to the standard BeOS applications. You can place new BeOS applications there.
beos | Clean BeOS system is installed in this directory.
demos | Interesting demo applications are placed in this directory.
develop | Header files and libraries used in software development are stored in this directory.
home | All user added files, fonts, libraries, etc., can be stored in this directory. See the chapter "Customizing the BeOS."
optional | Optional items (movies, midi files, etc.) are installed if you chose the optional install option.
preferences | Links to the preference applications are stored.

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In the BeOS there are two classes of directories: system and user. To ensure system reliability, you can install or delete items in the user directories - the system directory should never be modified by the user.

> WARNING: The /beos and /develop folders are system software directories and should not be modified by the user.

The apps, home, optional, and preferences directories as well as any you create via the Tracker are user directories and can be modified or deleted as desired. We encourage you to install applications in the apps directory, and working files in the home directory.

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