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File System Management Functions

The main purpose of file system management is to be able to store information, organize it, share it, and access it later. The file system is comprised of two parts: a collection of files, and a directory structure. It also provides the user with access to online storage, data, and operating system programs. When it comes to the operation of files there are several distinct types that they can perform to include: 

  • Creating 
  • Writing 
  • Reading 
  • Repositioning 
  • Deleting 
  • Truncating 

In terms of reliability, a new organizational technique was introduced called redundant arrays of independent disks (RAID). According to Silberschatz, Galvin, & Gagne (2014), the new RAID techniques "are commonly used to address the performance and reliability issues." (p. 458). The RAID technique uses multiple disks rather than a single disk to improve overall performance and allow for data redundancy. 

In total there are five distinct directory structures seen below. Each directory structure has its own set of unique advantages and disadvantages depending on the purpose of the computer system. 

  • Single-Level – All files are contained within the same directory.  
  • Two-Level – Used when there are multiple users to a system. Each user has their own directory. 
  • Tree-Structured – Allows individual users to create their own subdirectories in their UFD. 
  • Acyclic-Graph – Allows a directory to share subdirectories and files. 
  • General-Graph – Similar to a tree-structure but with links added between directories. 


Input/output (IO) devices can be described as “a piece of hardware that can take, output, or process data” (GeeksforGeeks 2021. para. 2). In short, I/O devices allow a user to interact with a computer system. Examples of I/O devices may include input and output devices such as:  

  • Keyboard 
  • Mouse 
  • Joystick 
  • Camera 
  • Printer 
  • Scanner 

When I/O devices are connected to a computer system they must pass through numerous components in order to communicate properly. These components consist of both hardware (the controller) and software (device driver, kernel I/O subsystem, and kernel). 


References: 

Silberschatz, A., Galvin, P. B., & Gagne, G. (2014). Operating system concepts essentials (2nd ed.). Retrieved from https://redshelf.com/

Input and Output Devices. GeeksforGeeks. (2021, September 22). Retrieved January 20, 2022, from https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/input-and-output-devices/?ref=gcse


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