nnn

nnn is a lightweight, terminal-based file manager for Unix-like systems. It emphasizes speed and a small footprint, making it suitable for use on laptops, servers, or environments with limited resources. The program is written in C and distributed as a single binary with minimal dependencies.

The interface is keyboard-driven, designed to enable rapid navigation and file operations within a terminal session. Core actions include listing directories, opening files with external programs, and performing typical file operations such as copy, move, rename, delete, and create directory. It supports marking multiple items for batch actions.

Extensibility is provided via a plugin system that allows external scripts or binaries to add actions or previews. Community plugins can extend functionality for tasks such as image previews, archives handling, or integration with other tools.

Configuration is user-centric and flexible. A configuration file and environment variables control behavior and key bindings, allowing customization of shortcuts, display options, and integration with external programs.

nnn is cross-platform across Unix-like systems, including Linux, BSD variants, and macOS, and is designed to work in both interactive sessions and over secure remote connections.

The project is widely used by system administrators and power users who value speed and efficiency in file management. It is recognized for its small resource footprint and minimal dependency requirements.

See also: ranger, vifm, lf.

External link: https://github.com/jarun/nnn