What does the command 'ls -l' do in a Linux environment?

The command 'ls -l' in a Linux environment plays a critical role in file management. It provides a long listing format that details various attributes of files and directories, including file permissions, ownership, size, and last modified date. When executed, this command not only displays the filenames but also reveals important information regarding who can access these files and what type of actions they can perform on them, making it essential for users managing file permissions.

By showing file permissions for the owner, group, and others, 'ls -l' allows users to assess security settings and take necessary actions if modifications are required. Understanding file permissions is fundamental in a Linux system, as it governs the level of access users have to the files.

Other commands mentioned do not perform this function. For instance, creating a new directory typically would involve commands like mkdir, listing files without details would be done with ls, and deleting files is achieved using the rm command. Thus, 'ls -l' distinctly focuses on showing file permissions along with additional file details, emphasizing its importance in system administration and security awareness.