**Get**: `hadoop fs -get /hdfs/path /local/path` — copies file/dir from HDFS to local. `-ignoreCrc` skips checksum (use cautiously). **Getmerge**: `hadoop fs -getmerge /hdfs/dir /local/merged_file` — concatenates all files in HDFS dir into one local file. `-nl` adds newline...
This easy-level Spark/Big Data question appears frequently in data engineering interviews at companies like Altimetrik. While less common, it tests deeper understanding that distinguishes strong candidates. Mastering the underlying concepts (spark) will help you answer variations of this question confidently.
Start by clearly defining the core concept being asked about. Interviewers want to see that you understand the fundamentals before diving into implementation details. Structure your answer with a definition, then explain the practical application with a concise example.
Get: hadoop fs -get /hdfs/path /local/path — copies file/dir from HDFS to local. -ignoreCrc skips checksum (use cautiously).
Getmerge: hadoop fs -getmerge /hdfs/dir /local/merged_file — concatenates all files in HDFS dir into one local file. -nl adds newline between files.
Why Use: Export query results, consolidate small files for single-file consumer. Not for in-place HDFS merge of huge data.
Scalability Trade-offs: getmerge streams through client; large dirs can bottleneck. For TB-scale, use Spark or DistCP.
Cost Implications: get/getmerge run on client—ensure sufficient disk. Prefer cloud-native (S3/ADLS) copy for cross-region.
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Analyze My Answer — FreeAccording to DataEngPrep.tech, this is one of the most frequently asked Spark/Big Data interview questions, reported at 1 company. DataEngPrep.tech maintains a curated database of 1,863+ real data engineering interview questions across 7 categories, verified by industry professionals.