OS Module in Python with Examples

Exploring the Python OS Module: A Practical Guide

The Python os module is a powerful tool that provides a way to interact with the operating system. It allows you to perform tasks such as file and directory manipulation, process management, and accessing system-specific parameters. In this guide, we'll delve into some of the most commonly used functions in the os module, complete with examples to illustrate their usage.:contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

Getting and Changing the Current Working Directory

The current working directory (CWD) is the folder where Python is operating. Whenever files are called by their name only, Python assumes that they are in the CWD.:contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

To get the current working directory, use the os.getcwd() function:​:contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

import os
cwd = os.getcwd()
print("Current working directory:", cwd)

To change the current working directory, use the os.chdir(path) function:​:contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}

import os
os.chdir('/path/to/directory')
print("Directory changed successfully")

Creating and Removing Directories

The os module provides methods to create and remove directories.:contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}

To create a single directory, use the os.mkdir(path) function:​:contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

import os
os.mkdir('new_directory')
print("Directory created successfully")

To create intermediate directories, use the os.makedirs(path) function:​:contentReference[oaicite:32]{index=32}

import os
os.makedirs('parent/child/grandchild')
print("Intermediate directories created successfully")

To remove an empty directory, use the os.rmdir(path) function:​:contentReference[oaicite:37]{index=37}

import os
os.rmdir('new_directory')
print("Directory removed successfully")

To remove a directory and its contents, use the os.removedirs(path) function:​:contentReference[oaicite:42]{index=42}

import os
os.removedirs('parent/child/grandchild')
print("Directory and its contents removed successfully")

Listing Files and Directories

To list all files and directories in a specified directory, use the os.listdir(path) function:​:contentReference[oaicite:47]{index=47}

import os
files = os.listdir('/path/to/directory')
print("Files and directories:", files)

Executing System Commands

The os module allows you to execute system commands using the os.system(command) function:​:contentReference[oaicite:52]{index=52}

import os
os.system('echo Hello, World!')

This will execute the specified command in the system's shell.:contentReference[oaicite:57]{index=57}

Conclusion

The Python os module is an essential tool for interacting with the operating system. By understanding and utilizing its functions, you can perform a wide range of system-related tasks efficiently. Whether you're managing files, directories, or executing system commands, the os module provides the functionality you need.:contentReference[oaicite:64]{index=64}