Linux Virtual File System (VFS)
TLDR: The Linux Virtual File System (VFS) is an abstraction layer within the Linux kernel that enables uniform access to multiple file system types. It was introduced in the early 1990s as part of the initial development of the Linux operating system, simplifying the integration and management of different file systems.
The primary role of the Linux VFS is to provide a standard interface for file system operations, such as opening, reading, writing, and closing files. By abstracting the underlying file systems, it allows the Linux kernel to support various file system types, including ext4, NTFS, FAT32, and network file systems like NFS and SMB. This flexibility makes Linux adaptable to a variety of storage scenarios.
The architecture of the Linux VFS is modular, consisting of key components such as the inode, dentry, and file structures. The inode represents metadata about a file, the dentry handles directory entries, and the file structure manages open files. Together, these elements provide a cohesive framework for handling file system interactions.
One of the significant advantages of the Linux VFS is its support for mounting multiple file systems simultaneously. This capability allows Linux to manage both local and remote file systems seamlessly, a feature critical for environments using cloud database storage or distributed computing systems.
The Linux VFS also facilitates the development of custom file systems. By adhering to the VFS interface, developers can create specialized file systems for specific applications without altering the Linux kernel itself. Examples include FUSE (Filesystem in Userspace), which enables user-space file system development.
As a foundational component of the Linux kernel, the Linux VFS continues to evolve with advancements in storage technologies. Its ability to unify and standardize file system access ensures its ongoing relevance in robotics, automation, and enterprise computing, where flexible and reliable file management is essential.
Filesystems: Virtual File System (VFS), File, File types, File extensiions, Bootstrap, Bootstrapping, Boot, Boot Up, Booting, Booting Up, Boot Loaders (Second-stage boot loader, e.g. NTLDR, LILO (boot loader) - LILO, GNU GRUB - GRUB), Boot Manager, Dual Boot, Dual boot macOS and Windows (Apple Boot Camp, Dual boot Linux and Windows, Boot Disk, Windows Boot, macOS Boot, Linux Boot, Secure Boot. (navbar_filesystems - see also navbar_boot, navbar_storage)
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