lsd

lsd (LSDeluxe) is a rewrite of GNU ls that adds extensive visual enhancements and formatting capabilities. It displays directory contents with color-coded file types, icons for different file extensions, and supports tree-view mode for hierarchical directory visualization. The tool requires a patched font like Nerd Font or Font Awesome to display icons properly.

lsd provides comprehensive customization through YAML configuration files for colors, icons, and general settings. Users can override default icons by file extension, name, or file type, and can customize color schemes to match their preferences. The configuration follows XDG Base Directory Specification on Unix systems and standard Windows paths.

The tool is designed for developers and system administrators who frequently navigate file systems through the command line. It maintains compatibility with standard ls command syntax while offering additional display options. Users can create aliases to replace the default ls command entirely, with common aliases including tree mode (lt) and detailed listing variants (l, la, lla).

Installation

# via Homebrew
brew install lsd

# via Cargo
cargo install lsd

# via APT
apt install lsd