varlibsnapd

Varlibsnapd is a term used to describe the data directory used by the snapd daemon to store persistent state and content for Snap packages. On most Linux distributions that implement Snap, this data directory resides at /var/lib/snapd and forms a central part of how snapd manages installed snaps across reboots. The directory supports the operation of snapd by providing storage for the local database, metadata about installed snaps, and references to cached or mounted content.

Within varlibsnapd, snapd maintains a database of installed snaps, their revision history, and the status of services provided by snaps. It also stores content files or pointers to content that is mounted at /snap, and caches of downloaded snap packages. The exact layout can vary between distributions and snapd versions, but the purpose remains to provide persistent storage for the snap ecosystem and for snapd to track state and configuration.

The varlibsnapd directory is managed by snapd and should not be modified manually. Disk usage can grow due to cached snaps and metadata; if necessary, administrators should use snapd-provided mechanisms or standard system maintenance tools to clean caches or remove unused snaps, rather than making direct edits. Regular monitoring of /var/lib/snapd helps maintain reliability and performance.

Security and reliability: As with other system data directories, varlibsnapd is owned by root and access is restricted by the system’s security framework, such as AppArmor or SELinux, in addition to snapd’s confinement. Corruption or loss of data in varlibsnapd can disrupt snap management; recovery may involve reinstalling snapd or restoring from backup.

See also: Snap (software packaging), snapd, /var/lib/snapd, /snap, AppArmor.