Quickly inspect and summarize LVM volume groups to see sizes, free space and topology. 26.06.2026 | reading time: 2 min Want a fast summary of your LVM volume groups? The `vgs` command prints concise information about each VG: physical volumes count, logical volumes count, attributes, total size and free space, which helps when planning allocations or troubleshooting capacity issues. Hands-on: a short example Run `vgs` and read the columns. Example session: ```bash $ sudo vgs VG #PV #LV #SN Attr VSize VFree vg_data 2 3 0 wz--n- 1.82t 200.00g ``` Here you see the VG name, how many PV and LV it contains, and the available free space; use that free space to create new LVs or extend existing ones. Make the output show what you need Tell `vgs` exactly which fields you want and in which units. For example to list names and free space in gigabytes run: ```bash $ sudo vgs --units g -o vg_name,vg_free --nosuffix --noheadings vg_data 200.00 ``` Combine `-o` with `--units`, `--separator` or `--noheadings` for scripts and automation. Other powerful options to know Use `--segments` to inspect VG segmentation, `-v` for verbose diagnostics and `--columns` to align output for humans; `vgs --select` filters VGs by attributes or names, and `vgs --reportformat json` produces machine-readable output for integrations. Commands that fit around vgs When you need low-level details or changes, use `pvs` to inspect physical volumes, `lvs` to inspect logical volumes, and `vgchange` to activate or deactivate a VG; `vgs` is the quick summary in that toolset. Next steps for the curious admin Start by practicing `vgs` on a test system and pipe its output into scripts to automate capacity checks; then learn `pvs` and `lvs` to act on the data. Deepen competence, aim for a certificate such as CompTIA Linux+ or LPIC-1, and consider intensive exam preparation at bitsandbytes.academy to turn hands-on skill into credentials. Join Bits & Bytes Academy First class LINUX exam preparation. storage utilities troubleshooting
