File Systems Supplemental
Operating System | File System(s) | Description |
---|---|---|
Windows | FAT (12, 16 or 32) |
This system uses what is known as a File Allocation Table to index the files on the disk. It divides hard disks into one or more partitions (parts) that become letters, like C:, D:, etc. Simple to implement and use, but can be somewhat slow. |
NTFS (New Technology File System) | Uses B-trees for indexing, allowing for very fast access times. Builds on the features of FAT, adds new features, and changes a few others.Recoverable file system that keeps track of actions in the file system. | |
exFAT (Extensible FAT) | A lightweight file system used primarily in flash storage applications and SD cards.Supports large file size and partition size limits, allowing storage of files over 4GB on compatible devices. | |
Mac OS | HFS+ (deprecated) APFS (current) |
Historically used HFS+ (HFS Plus) file system, replaced by APFS (Apple File System) starting with macOS High Sierra and iOS 10.3+. |
Linux | ext2, ext3, ext4, XFS, JFS, etc. | Linux systems support various file systems including ext2, ext3, ext4.XFS, JFS, and others are also used depending on the Linux distribution and requirements. ext3 is a journaling extension to ext2, and ext4 is its successor. |
File Tree Definitions
Node Type | Description |
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Root node |
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Parent nodes |
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Child nodes |
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Leaf nodes |
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Each node is TWO of the above
![](https://e115.engr.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-05-at-2.56.15 PM-1024x550.png)
Absolute Pathnames
![](https://e115.engr.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-05-at-2.57.00 PM-1024x542.png)
Exact location of a file, basically an address
ALWAYS starts at the root
Absolute vs Relative pathnames
A relative pathname uses us a file/directory path relative to where we are in the file system. If you asked where I live, and you go to NC State and know I live on campus, I might tell you:
Sullivan Hall Room 101
This is like an relative pathname because I am giving you the path to my address relative to YOU. You also go to NC State, so I am including the information you need relative to where you are. Note that this address still represents the ”absolute pathname” of my address.
Pathnames to Memorize
The E 115 Course Locker: /mnt/coe/workspace/csc/admin/e115
- The Your Home Directory : /mnt/ncsudrive/*/unityid
- Where * is your first letter of your unityID and unityid is your unityIDYour Home Directory: ~/known as tilde slash or squiggle slash
File Names and Extensions
- Must include extension name
- Manually changing extension doesn’t change the file type
- _ (underscores) are OK, spaces are not. No use of / or other symbols.
- Security concerns: a .exe file might look like a .jpg file.
Simplified NFS Chart
![](https://e115.engr.ncsu.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/32/2024/07/Screenshot-2024-07-05-at-2.44.17 PM-1024x567.png)