In Unix, when I use the quota command on my account, why do I see that my file quota is zero?

In Unix, if you use the quota command and it appears that your file quota is zero, this typically means that there is no limit set for that resource.

The quota command gives information on your account quotas in a format similar to the following: Disk quotas for Myron Q. Fourpoint (uid 40): Filsys current quota limit #warns files quota limit #warns /usr5 440 4000 4400 40 0 0

Note: If you do not get any information when you run quota, try running quota -v instead.

There are two types of quotas that can be set for user accounts: one for the amount of disk space you are allowed to use (the first four number fields), and another for the number of files you are allowed to have regardless of the amount of disk space they take up (the last four number fields).

At Indiana University, UITS currently does not set a limit on the number of files you can have in your account, only a limit on the amount of disk space available to you. The zero in the file quota field indicates that there is no limit on the number of files you can have.

At Indiana University, for personal or departmental Linux or Unix systems support, see At IU, how do I get support for Linux or Unix?

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