herdloc

herdloc is a command-line utility designed for locating specific files or directories within a given directory hierarchy. It allows users to search for files based on various criteria, including name, modification time, and file type. The primary function of herdloc is to provide a fast and efficient way to find items that might otherwise be difficult to locate through manual browsing or standard operating system search tools.

The basic usage of herdloc involves specifying a starting directory and a search pattern. The tool then recursively traverses the directory structure from the starting point, comparing each encountered file or directory against the provided pattern. When a match is found, herdloc outputs the full path to the located item. This makes it useful for scripting, automation, or for users who frequently need to access files that are not in readily accessible locations.

Advanced options in herdloc enable more granular control over the search process. These might include options to exclude certain directories from the search, to perform case-insensitive matching, or to limit the search depth. The tool is typically implemented in scripting languages or compiled for performance, making it a practical choice for managing large numbers of files or complex directory structures. Its simplicity and focus on targeted file retrieval distinguish it from more general-purpose file management utilities.