In computing, a file system specifies how data is stored and retrieved on the drive.
The most common ones areNTFS, FAT and exFAT.
But what are these file systems and what are the differences between NTFS, FAT, exFAT?
This article explores the basics ofWindows file systemsand help you choose the best one for your needs.
Contents
What is File Systems?
There are three file formats that the most used Windows OS supports FAT32, exFAT and NTFS.
Here are some brief introductions about the different features of file systems.
When you install Windows, it formats your system drive with the NTFS file system.
Pro tip: NTFS provides compatibility across platforms and efficiency when compared to other file systems.
By default, Mac OS X can only read NTFS drives, not write to them.
Some Linux distributions may enable NTFS-writing support, but some may be read-only.
Today, the most commonly used file system with Windows is NTFS.
It was the file system used in an older version of Windows 95 up until Windows XP.
If youre just sharing small files between computers, however, its a fine system to use.
FAT is an outdated and insecure file system that can easily be corrupted or damaged.
This is an updated file system created by Microsoft to replace FAT32.
It is a middle ground between FAT32 and the more modern and more sophisticated NTFS file system.
If you are wondering if Windows 10 can read exFAT, the answer is Yes!
Also, drives formatted with exFAT are faster at writing and reading data than FAT32 drives.
Pro Tip: exFAT is very efficient in copying large files when compared to other file systems.
NTFS is the best choice for internal hard drives that store important data or run Windows operating systems.
FAT is the best choice for removable drives that need to be compatible with older devices or operating systems.
