Concept Of Computer Files - SS2 ICT Past Questions and Answers - page 2

A file system is a method used by an operating system to manage and organize files on storage devices. It provides a structured way to store and retrieve data, and it handles tasks like file allocation, naming, and access control. The file system maintains directories, subdirectories, and files within a hierarchical structure. It ensures efficient storage and retrieval of files, manages free space, and tracks metadata such as file attributes and permissions.

Directories, also known as folders, play a vital role in organizing files within a file system. They group related files together, making it easier for users to navigate and manage their data. For example, in a directory named "Photos," you might have subdirectories like "Vacation," "Family," and "Friends," each containing relevant image files. This hierarchical structure helps maintain order and prevents clutter in storage systems.

Metadata refers to descriptive information about a file, such as its name, size, creation date, modification date, file type, and permissions. It provides context and additional details about the file without necessarily containing the file's actual content. Metadata is crucial for effective file management, search, and retrieval. It helps users quickly identify files, understand their characteristics, and determine their usage permissions.

Text files contain human-readable characters and are typically used to store plain text data. Examples include documents (like .txt files), source code files (like .cpp or .java files), and configuration files (like .ini files). Binary files, on the other hand, store non-textual data in a format that's not directly human-readable. Examples of binary files include image files (like .jpg or .png files), audio files (like .mp3 files), and compiled program files (like .exe files). Binary files can contain encoded data or machine code instructions.

A compressed file format, like ZIP or RAR, works by reducing the size of files through various compression algorithms. These algorithms identify patterns and redundancies within the data and replace them with shorter representations. When the compressed file is opened, it's decompressed back to its original form. Compressed files offer benefits in terms of storage space savings and efficient data transfer, especially when sharing files over networks or the internet. They also help bundle multiple files together for easier distribution and backup.