Introduction

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

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

• The entire file tree from the root directory downward

• 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 it is accessible

Usually, you can tell from 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, without requiring the user or program to know about the underlying file system type.

Administering file systems is one of your most important system administration tasks. Read this chapter for file system background and planning information. Refer to other chapters in the System Administration Guide for instructions about the following tasks:

• Creating new file systems - See Chapter 27, Creating File Systems (Tasks) and Chapter 29, The Cache File System (Tasks) for detailed information.

• Making local and remote files available to users - See Chapter 28, Mounting and Unmounting File Systems (Tasks) for detailed information.

• Connecting and configuring new disk devices - See Chapter 21, Disk Management (Overview) for detailed information.

• Designing and implementing a backup schedule and restoring files and file systems as needed - See Chapter 33, Backing Up and Restoring File Systems (Overview) for information about backing up and restoring files and file systems.

• Checking for and correcting file system damage - See Chapter 31, Checking File System Integrity for detailed information on how to proceed if the automatic (boot time) checking fails.