Reference number: CH000757

How do I find text within files in Linux?

Question:

How do I find text within files in Linux?

Additional information:

This document is for users looking for information about finding text within one or more files on their computer. If you're looking for information about finding a file on your computer, see document CH000623.

Answer:

One of the easiest methods of locating text contained within a file on a computer running Linux is to use the grep command. Below is a basic example of a command used to locate any htm file containing the word help.

grep "help" *.htm

See our grep command page for additional information and help with this command.