File Management and File Systems

Start with files and their attributes

Begin with the note Why we need files, then look at the File Attributes mind map. The map describes directories, folders and the root directory. Use it to organize your understanding of where files are stored before moving on to how a file system works.

The File Systems mind map brings together file attributes such as name, type, location and size. It also covers access methods, directory structure and protection. Follow these branches to see how the ideas fit together.

Move from interface to implementation

After studying attributes and access methods, compare them with the material on file-system implementation. The File-System Implementation mind map covers file-system layout, disk partitions, free-space management, files and directories. You can move between its branches and the interface material in the File Systems map as you study.

The Compressing files mind map offers another way into the collection. It discusses large files and the uploading and downloading of files for sharing or local processing.

Use maps and quizzes together

Once you have explored a map, try the Computer File Systems quiz. Its questions include the definition of FAT, the effect of a corrupted sector on a FAT table and the description of a partition table. Use your answers to decide which ideas to look over again.

Return to a relevant map after the quiz and trace the branches connected to the question. The page also lists file-system and file-management flashcards if you want another format for studying the terms.

Place the topic in the unit

File Management and File Systems is a section of Operating Systems in Computing and ICT. The resources bring interface, implementation and file-management material together within that section. You can start with a particular file concept, then use the maps to connect it to the wider material listed here. Open a map and follow a branch that interests you.