10 Common File Systems (And the Benefits They Offer) - Skills To Get Ahead In Your Career

A file system is the software, hardware or method that a technology device uses to manage data. Professionals use file systems to access, share, delete and edit their files. If you work with any type of computer or technology, it’s important to understand your device’s filing system. In this article, we explain what a file system is and share a list of 10 common filing systems you may use for your device, including the benefits they each other.

A file system provides a method for data storage that allows a device to store data as individual pieces and files. File systems can also further sort files by adding features like permissions, types and a naming system. This can help professionals better organize the content on their technological device, which allows them to find and use data with more ease. Professionals can use different file systems depending on their personal preferences, device and uses.

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Understanding which file system you currently use can be beneficial, as you can learn about its features and benefits. If you’re interested in switching systems, it’s also helpful to review other systems. Consider this list of 10 common file systems to learn more about them:

A disk file system is a type of file system that manages and stores data permanently on a disk. Disk drive file systems connect to computers with the help of connecting wires and cables. This type of file system has a large storage capacity and offers the ability for more than one user to locate files. Disk file systems are among the most affordable file system solutions, which allows them to be a good system for both personal and professional use.

Another benefit of disk drives is that professionals build them to have a long period of functionality, which can also add to their affordability. Disk drive files have a nonvolatile memory, which means this filing system can often restore the data you store on it in the event of a power outage.

Flash file systems store files using flash memory, which is a high-speed programming method. Flash drives are highly portable and can connect to a variety of technological devices, including laptops, desktops, gaming devices and televisions. This type of file system is often more durable than other popular systems, as stretches and electromagnets can’t damage it. Flash drives are very adaptable memory systems, as they can function without the use of Wi-Fi and don’t need electricity to operate.

Professionals purchase different sizes of flash file systems depending on their needs. Flash drives can store up to two terabytes but the average flash drive storage is usually between 64 and 512 megabytes. This is affordable and easily accessible storage device is often best for the storage of data you may want to access quickly.

A database file system is a software that allows users to create and control access to the database. This means that professionals can manage their data, including its creation, review and deletion within the database. Database file systems immediately recognize and change data as users prefer, which allows all users to have up-to-date data and reduces duplicate files. This type of file system is ideal for professionals who commonly share their work or operate on a team, as sharing data and files is often an easy process with databases.

Users can edit the permissions on each file, which can limit who can view or change the file. This allows an additional type of privacy for data that other file systems don’t have.

Tape file systems use magnetic tape to store files. This type of system is similar to a disk file system. Professionals don’t often use this type of filing system today but it can offer a low-cost storage solution. Tape file systems are also less susceptible to electronic media corruption, which means this filing system can store and maintain data for a long period of time. Though this isn’t currently a popular file system, it’s important for professionals to understand how to use tape systems to access older files.

Network file systems allow for easier file sharing between devices and users. This system allows users to access, view and edit files as if they’re stored on the same device. Network file systems allow multiple users to access the same files and maintain and track any changes a professional makes so it can update the file immediately. Similar to database file systems, a network file system is ideal for a team or for the ability for an organization to have equal access to up-to-date files.

This system does not involve a physical product as flash and disk drives do, so using this type of system can also save space within the office.

Encrypted file systems automatically convert files into coded data after the user saves them. While other systems offer data privacy, encrypted file systems can protect data without the intervention and effort of the user. This means that an individual can’t access the data without permission even if they have physical access to the data. This type of file system is especially beneficial for professionals who handle sensitive data, such as those who work in the government, medical or finance industries.

A flat-file database file system stores all files in one place. Also known as a text-based file system, this storage method allows users to easily read and access files. It requires little software and hardware elements, so the installation and use of this filing system are often simple as well. Professionals may use a flat-file system to store smaller amounts of files that don’t often need edits or transformations.

Shared disk file systems is a storage option that allows several different devices to share the same filing system. This allows multiple users to access the same files at once and without sharing a device. This file system can eliminate the need for multiple disk drives per organization, which can save on monetary costs and allow for less clutter within the office. A major benefit of shared disk file systems is their ability to handle, edit and share large file types, such as an HD video. It also features a centralized system, which allows users to access the most up-to-date version of a file.

Also known as a pseudo-file system, a synthetic file system arranges non-file objects as if they were part of a disk drive or database. This file system allows professionals to access nodes in the same way they can view and manage traditional files. The main benefit of this type of system is that it operates independently of any specific network or platform, which means professionals can use it in multiple ways despite the hardware and software they already use.

Record-oriented file systems, also known as file-oriented systems, store data by organizing it into individual files. This contrasts with other storage types that may save data by bytes. This system often makes it easy to back-up computer files and is a compact way to store data.