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split Command in Linux

split Command in Linux

By Team Scaler
3 mins read
Last updated: 31 Dec 2023
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Overview

The split command in Linux is a highly useful tool for dividing large files into smaller, more manageable pieces. This command is often used in scenarios where you need to break down a large file for easier data processing or distribution. In this article, we'll dissect the split command, its syntax, options, and some practical examples of its usage.

Syntax of split Command in Linux

The basic syntax of the split command in Linux is as follows:

Where:

  • OPTIONS: These are optional parameters that modify the behavior of the split command.
  • FILE: This is the input file that you want to split.
  • PREFIX: This parameter specifies the prefix for the output files. The default prefix is 'x'.

Options in split Command in Linux

  1. -b, --bytes=SIZE: This option lets you specify the size of each output file.

    For example -

    Output:

    This command splits the 'largefile.txt' into multiple files of size 500KB each.

  2. -l, --lines=NUMBER: This option lets you specify the number of lines for each output file.

    For example -

    Output:

    This command splits the 'largefile.txt' into multiple files, each containing 1000 lines.

  3. -a, --suffix-length=N: This option lets you specify the length of the suffix in the output files.

    For example -

    Output:

    This command splits the 'largefile.txt' into multiple files, each having a 3-character suffix.

Example Usages

  • Basic usage of split command.:

    Output:

    Explanation: The split command, without any options, splits the input file into multiple files, each containing 1000 lines.

  • Splitting a file into specific byte size.:

    Output:

    Explanation: The split command, with -b option, splits the input file into multiple files, each of 1MB size.

Tips

  • Always backup your original files before using the split command.

  • You can use the cat command to join the split files back together.

Advanced Use Cases of split Command in Linux

  • Splitting a file and specifying a custom prefix.:

    Output:

    Explanation: The split command splits the input file into multiple files, each prefixed with 'customprefix'.

  • Splitting a file into specific line count with custom suffix length.:

    Output:

    Explanation: The split command splits the input file into multiple files, each containing 2000 lines and having a 4-character suffix.

  • Splitting a file using a combination of options.:

    Output:

    Explanation: The split command splits the input file into multiple files, each containing 5000 lines and having a 2-character suffix, with the suffixes numbered instead of alphabetical.

Conclusion

  • The split command in Linux is a powerful tool for dividing large files into smaller, manageable pieces.

  • The syntax of the split command includes options, file, and prefix, each serving a different purpose.

  • Key options of the split command include -b for byte size, -l for line count, and -a for suffix length.