This chapter covers Linux filesystems from multiple viewpoints. I will discuss the structure of what is currently the most common Linux filesystem, EXT3, both logically and in the physical sense of how it is recorded on the hard drive. I will cover the care and maintenance of the EXT3 filesystem in detail. I will also briefly discuss other types of filesystems in use with Linux.
I will also discuss the Filesystem Hierarchy Standard and Logical Volume Management (LVM).
What is a Filesystem?
Filesystems have several functions with the ultimate objective of being able to provide a data storage medium for your computer.
- Data Storage
- Namespace
- Naming and organizational methodology
- API
- System function calls to manipulate filesystem objects
- Security model
- Scheme for defining access rights
- Implementation
- Software to implement the above functions