Overview of File Systems

A file system is a structure of directories that is used to organize and store files. The term file system is used to describe the following:

• A particular type of file system: disk-based, network-based, or virtual

• The entire file tree, begining with the root directory

• The data structure of a disk slice or other media storage device

• A portion of a file tree structure that is attached to a mount point on the main file tree so that the files are accessible

Usually, you can tell from the context which meaning is intended.

The Solaris operating environment uses the virtual file system (VFS) architecture, which provides a standard interface for different file system types. The VFS architecture enables the kernel to handle basic operations, such as reading, writing, and listing files, and makes it easier to add new file systems.