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wipefs:tldr:4c762

wipefs: Display signatures for specified device.
$ sudo wipefs ${-dev-sdX}
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The command sudo wipefs ${-dev-sdX} is used to wipe filesystem signatures on a specified storage device (sdX) using the wipefs utility. Here is the breakdown of the command:

  • sudo: This command is used to run the following command as superuser or root user. It provides the necessary privileges to execute administrative tasks.

  • wipefs: This is a utility in Linux used to erase filesystem signatures, labels, or partitions from a device or disk. It removes any metadata information that might be present on the device, making it appear as a blank or unformatted device.

  • ${-dev-sdX}: This part of the command represents the device you want to wipe. The sdX is a placeholder and it should be replaced with the actual identifier of the device you want to wipe, such as sda or sdb. The ${} syntax is commonly used to pass variables or parameters to the command.

So, when you run the command with an actual device identifier, it will erase any filesystem signatures or labels present on that device, effectively wiping it clean. However, make sure to exercise caution and double-check the device identifier to avoid accidentally wiping the wrong device.

This explanation was created by an AI. In most cases those are correct. But please always be careful and never run a command you are not sure if it is safe.
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