What is the starting point of the virtual file system?

The starting point of the virtual file system in Linux is represented by the root directory, denoted by a single forward slash (/). This directory serves as the base from which all other directories branch out, making it the top level of the file system hierarchy. Every file and directory in a Linux system can be traced back to this root directory, which is crucial for the structure and organization of the file system.

In contrast, other options represent specific directories within the Linux filesystem hierarchy. For example, /mnt is typically used for mounting filesystems temporarily, /home is commonly where user home directories are stored, and /dev is used for device files to interface with hardware devices. While all these directories are important, they reside under the root directory in the overall structure, reinforcing the significance of the root directory as the starting point of the virtual file system.