Quick Answer
The correct answer is `Files.walk(Path, FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS)`, as this is the only NIO.2 method that both recursively traverses a directory tree and explicitly follows symbolic links during the walk. The `FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS` enum constant instructs the walker to descend into the targets of symbolic links, enabling the traversal to detect files that are themselves symbolic links; without this option, `Files.walk` treats symbolic links as regular files and does not follow them, which would miss the linked targets entirely. On the Oracle Certified Professional Java SE 17 Developer 1Z0-829 exam, this question tests your understanding of how `FileVisitOption` modifies traversal behavior, and a common trap is confusing `Files.walk` with `Files.list` or `Files.find`—neither of which accepts `FOLLOW_LINKS` in the same way. Remember the memory tip: "walk follows when you pass the flag; without it, links are just files."
This 1Z0-829 practice question tests your understanding of java i/o api and securing applications. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A developer wants to traverse a directory tree to find all files that are symbolic links. Which NIO.2 method should be used to follow symbolic links during traversal?
Files.newDirectoryStream(Path)
Why wrong: newDirectoryStream does not traverse subdirectories.
Files.list(Path)
Why wrong: Files.list only returns entries in the direct directory, not recursive.
Files.walk(Path) without options
Why wrong: Without FOLLOW_LINKS, symbolic links are not followed.
Files.walk(Path, FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS)
This method with FOLLOW_LINKS will follow symbolic links during directory traversal.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Files.walk(Path, FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS)
The correct answer is D because `Files.walk(Path, FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS)` is the only method among the options that both traverses a directory tree recursively and explicitly follows symbolic links. The `FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS` enum constant instructs the walk to follow symbolic links, allowing the traversal to detect files that are themselves symbolic links. Without this option, `Files.walk` treats symbolic links as regular files and does not follow them, which would miss the target of the link.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Files.newDirectoryStream(Path)
Why it's wrong here
newDirectoryStream does not traverse subdirectories.
Files.list(Path)
Why it's wrong here
Files.list only returns entries in the direct directory, not recursive.
Files.walk(Path) without options
Why it's wrong here
Without FOLLOW_LINKS, symbolic links are not followed.
Files.walk(Path, FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS)
Why this is correct
This method with FOLLOW_LINKS will follow symbolic links during directory traversal.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates often assume `Files.walk(Path)` without options follows symbolic links by default, but the default behavior is to NOT follow links, and the `FOLLOW_LINKS` option must be explicitly provided to enable that behavior.
Detailed technical explanation
Under the hood, `Files.walk` uses a `FileVisitor` internally and, when `FOLLOW_LINKS` is specified, it sets the `LINK_OPTION` in the underlying `Files.walkFileTree` call, which causes the `SimpleFileVisitor` to follow symbolic links when encountering directories. A subtle behavior is that following links can lead to infinite loops if there are circular symbolic links; the API does not detect cycles automatically, so developers must handle `FileSystemLoopException` or use `FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS` with caution in production code. In real-world scenarios, this is critical for backup tools or file system scanners that need to traverse mount points or linked directories.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
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FAQ
Java I/O API and Securing Applications — This question tests Java I/O API and Securing Applications — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Files.walk(Path, FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS) — The correct answer is D because `Files.walk(Path, FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS)` is the only method among the options that both traverses a directory tree recursively and explicitly follows symbolic links. The `FileVisitOption.FOLLOW_LINKS` enum constant instructs the walk to follow symbolic links, allowing the traversal to detect files that are themselves symbolic links. Without this option, `Files.walk` treats symbolic links as regular files and does not follow them, which would miss the target of the link.
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Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 25, 2026
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