A file system is the method an operating system uses to store, organize, manage, and retrieve data on a storage device (like a hard disk, SSD, USB drive, or memory card).
Think of it like a library system:
Books = files
Shelves & sections = folders/directories
Library rules = file system
What does a File System Do?
- Stores data in files
- Organizes files into folders (directories)
- Keeps track of file locations on the disk
- Controls access & permissions
- Manages space efficiently
- Protects data from corruption
Basic Components
Files
- Contain data (text, images, videos, programs)
- Have a name, size, type, and permissions
Directories (Folders)
- Hold files and other folders
- Create a hierarchical structure
Metadata
- Information about files (created date, owner, permissions)
Storage Blocks
- Physical space where data is stored on the disk
File System Hierarchy
Most operating systems use a tree-like structure:
Root (/ or C:\)
├── Home / Users
│ └── Documents
│ └── file.txt
├── System
└── Applications
Common Types of File Systems
Windows
FAT32 – Older, compatible with many devices
NTFS – Secure, supports large files
Linux
EXT4 – Most common, fast & reliable
XFS – Used for large storage systems
macOS
APFS – Optimized for SSDs
Why File System Is Important?
Without it, data would be random
Faster file access
Better security & permissions
Prevents data loss
Efficient storage usage
In One Line
A file system is the backbone of data storage that tells the OS where and how files live on a disk.
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