Files and File Systems in Computers

The digital world is full of data, be it in the form of images, videos, or text. Have you ever wondered how the computer handles such a huge amount of data? Do you get confused between a computer file and a computer file system? Are the words the same? Let us find what computer files and computer file systems are.

What is a Computer File?

A computer file is a medium or an object used to store data in digital format which is managed and used in the future. The data to be stored in a file can be of various types like image, text, video, etc.

Characteristics of a Computer File:

  • Data storage: We may store data in a variety of formats on computer files, including text, video, and photographs. Digital files allow us to store, fetch, and delete data.
  • File identifier: The computer permits metadata components and unique identifiers for every file. Each of these metadata pieces is distinct and associated with a certain file. This ensures users easily identify their files by name, enhancing data accessibility.
  • Special attributes: To provide users with information, computer files are linked to various attributes. Access controls, such as read-only or editing privileges, are some frequently used file properties.

What is a Computer File System?

A file system in a computer is a framework of operating systems for storing and organizing files in the storage devices. The file system keeps track of each file’s actual location on the storage device, coordinates the hierarchy of directories and files, and gives them names and locations. Some common existing file systems of different operating systems are :

  • File Allocation Table or FAT: It is an outdated file system used by earlier iterations of Windows and other operating systems.

  • New Technology File System: This file system is used by Windows and features like encryption, compression, and file and folder permissions are well-supported in this file system.

  • Extended File System: EXT file system is frequently found on Linux and Unix-based operating systems.

  • HFS or Hierarchical File System: This file system is widely used in MacOS.

  • APFS or Apple File System: This is another file system used by Apple for their Macs and iOS devices.

Are Computer File and Computer File Systems the Same?

The words computer file and computer file systems are not the same and they differ in terms of their scope. A computer file store is used for data storage purposes. On the other hand, A computer file system is a feature used by operating systems to manage and organize different files existing in the computer.

Having understood the basics of files and file systems used in computers lets us take the next step to learn further about computers from basics to advanced. Visit the 98thPercentile website to learn more about computers and coding.

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