A hard link is a type of file system link that connects two or more files together, allowing them to share the same data and metadata. Unlike a symbolic link, which is a shortcut to a file, a hard link creates a direct connection between the linked files, making them indistinguishable from one another. This means that changes made to one file will automatically be reflected in the other, making hard links a powerful tool for organizing and managing files. They are commonly used in operating systems to save storage space and improve file access efficiency. In essence, a hard link is like a bridge that connects multiple files, making them function as a single entity.