Linux How to Update Automatically the Updatedb Locate Database

This Article shows you How to have a Freshly Updated Locate Database for Searching/Finding Stuff on Linux.

The locate Command is the Easiest and Fastest Way to Find and Search for Files, Directories, Images and Paths on the Unix-like Systems.

If you want to Find a Tutorial for Getting-Started with the Locate Command you Find a Link Inside the Guide.

Relax and Take the Time for Reading, Understanding and Enjoying the Clear Insight Brought to you by this Guide.

1. Open a Terminal Window
   (Press “Enter” to Execute Commands)

2. Check the updatedb Location

   which updatedb

   The updatedb Path in Most Linux Distros should be: /usr/bin/updatedb.

   If you Do Not Get any Output find Documentation About the updatedb Command for your System.

3. Login as Superuser

   su 

   If Got “User is Not in Sudoers file” then see: How to Enable sudo

4. Edit the Root Crontab

   crontab -e

   The File will be Open on your Default System Terminal Editor and this is One between Two:

   • nano

   • vi

   .

5. To have a Database Updated Hourly Add this Line to the Crontab

   58   *   *   *   *   /usr/bin/updatedb

   In vi Editor you Need to Hit the “i” Key to Enter in Editing Mode.

6. Save & Exit with

   • On nano: Ctrl+x

   • On vi:

     1. Esc

     2. :wq

7. For Getting-Started Using the locate Command.

   Getting-Started to Locate Files, Directories, Images and Paths on Linux with the locate Command