File systems

Question: What is the function of a file system?

• Answer: A file system organizes data storage logically and is implemented in software, allowing it to be used across different storage devices.

What are common attributes of files?

• Answer: File attributes include the name, type, size, location, protection levels, and metadata such as time and date.

• Unix systems use i-numbers as unique identifiers.

Question: What operations can be performed on files?

• Answer: Basic file operations include creating, reading, writing, deleting, opening, and closing files, as well as repositioning within a file.

What are the two main file access methods?

• Sequential Access: Processes data in order.

• Direct Access: Allows data to be accessed at any position, suitable for databases.

What is RAID and its types?

• Answer: RAID enhances data integrity and performance. Types include:

  • RAID 1: Mirroring data on two disks.

  • RAID 5: Distributing data and parity across multiple disks.

What types of directory structures exist in file systems?

• Answer: Directory structures include single-level, two-level, tree-structured, and acyclic-graph directories,

• each supporting different organizational needs.

Question: What is file system mounting?

• Answer: File system mounting integrates a file system into the system's directory structure

• at a designated mount point,

• making it accessible to users and processes.

Question: How are files shared and protected in file systems?

Answer: File sharing and protection are managed via permissions for read, write, execute;

supports multi-user access with control mechanisms

like file locking (mandatory and advisory).

Question: How does remote file sharing work?

• Answer: Remote file sharing can be conducted manually using FTP,

• seamlessly via network file systems like NFS,

• or semi-automatically through web technologies.

Question: What is the importance of memory and disk structure in file systems?

• Answer: Memory management utilizes paging and virtual memory to manage efficiency and access speed.

• Disk structures may include different partition types

• and are often organized using RAID for redundancy.