Understanding Inodes and Inode Numbers in File Systems
By
ingve
The bagel they save for the regulars. Don't skim, savour.
Summary
This article explains the concept of inodes and inode numbers in file systems, with a focus on APFS (Apple File System) as the first native Mac file system to implement true inodes. It covers what inodes are, how they uniquely identify files and directories, their role in volume groups, and how they're used in different types of file links. The content provides technical education about fundamental file system concepts.
Key quotes
· 4 pulledEvery self-respecting file system identifies files and directories using numbered data structures.
In most modern file systems, those data structures are known as inodes, and their numbers are inode numbers.
The term is thought to be a contraction of index node, which certainly makes sense, but is lost in the mists of time.
In any file system, for example an individual APFS volume, the inode numbers uniquely identify each inode, and each object within that file system has its own inode.
You might also wanna read
Interactive Guide to How Web Browsers Work: Building Intuition Through Examples
This article is an interactive educational guide that explains how web browsers work, designed specifically for engineers and curious indivi
Europe's struggle to adapt to the AI revolution: education, upskilling, and industrial change
This article examines Europe's preparedness for the AI revolution, covering how EU countries are adapting through grassroots education, upsk
f24.my·58m ago
The AI Backlash: Students and the Growing Resistance to Artificial Intelligence
This article discusses the growing backlash against AI, particularly among university students who feel that large language models have deva
tickettailor.com·1h ago
How to download tweets from any public X account using Circleboom
This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to download tweets from any public X (formerly Twitter) account in bulk using Circleboom's
circleboom.com·3h ago
Assemblage Mapping as a Tool for Accountability in AI-Supported Legal Advice
This article examines how AI is reshaping legal advice at the infrastructure level, arguing that legally consequential guidance is increasin
slsa.ac.uk·4h ago
Why Jet Aircraft Use Generators Instead of Alternators for Electrical Power
This article explains why modern jet aircraft use generators instead of alternators for their electrical systems. It covers the fundamental
slashgear.com·4h ago