---
title: "How to Compare Files Using diff Command in Linux"
description: "Compare files in Linux best examples."
url: https://srinimf.com/2015/09/19/how-to-compare-two-files-in-unix-with-diff-command/
date: 2015-09-19
modified: 2026-10-10
author: "Srini"
image: https://i0.wp.com/srinimf.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/diff_command-in-linux.jpg?fit=1200%2C700&ssl=1
categories: ["UNIX"]
tags: ["Comparing two files in UNIX"]
type: post
lang: en
---

# How to Compare Files Using diff Command in Linux

The “**diff command**” compares two files, returns the line(s) that are different, and tells you [how to](https://srinimf.com/2019/11/12/ubuntu-tutorial-cut-command-on-csv-file/) make the files the same.

**Here’s an example to use ‘diff’ command**

```
$ diff file1 file2
```

> Here, File1 and File 2 are two files taken for comparison. The UNIX assigns for file 1 ‘A’ and for File 2 ‘B’. Then it gives clear differences.

Refer [more for diff commands](http://www.itworld.com/article/2696092/operating-systems/unix---having-fun-with-diff.html)

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