NTFS

NTFS is the primary file system used by Windows for managing files on storage devices. It provides advanced features like security permissions, compression, and journaling to ensure data integrity.

Key Features

Security – Supports file-level permissions with Access Control Lists (ACLs).
Journaling – Uses a log to track changes, reducing the risk of data corruption.
Compression – Allows files and folders to be stored in a compressed format to save space.
Encryption – Supports file encryption with Encrypting File System (EFS).
Large File Support – Can handle files larger than 4GB, unlike FAT32.
Disk Quotas – Limits how much disk space users can use.

NTFS vs. FAT32

Feature	NTFS	FAT32
Max File Size	16 TB (theoretical)	4 GB
Security	ACL-based permissions	None
Journaling	Yes	No
Compression	Yes	No
Encryption	Yes (EFS)	No

NTFS File Structure

NTFS organizes files using the Master File Table (MFT), which keeps records of all files, their metadata, and locations on the disk.

Key Components of MFT:

File Records – Contains file attributes and location data.
Attribute List – Stores metadata like file names, sizes, and security settings.
Data Runs – Defines where file data is physically stored on disk.

NTFS Permissions

Permissions control who can access files and folders. They are assigned through ACLs, which include:

Full Control – All actions, including deleting and modifying permissions.
Modify – Allows editing but not changing security settings.
Read & Execute – Can open files and run applications.
Read – Only allows viewing files.
Write – Enables creating and modifying files without deleting them.

NTFS Workflow Diagram

+------------------+
|   File Request   |
+------------------+
        |
        v
+------------------+
|  NTFS Check ACL  |
+------------------+
        |
  Access Granted?  
    /     \
   Yes     No
   |        |
   v        v
Read/Write  Denied

NTFS Commands

To manage NTFS permissions and features, use these common Windows commands:

# Check disk for errors
chkdsk /f /r
 
# Change file permissions
icacls "C:\path\to\file" /grant User:F
 
# Enable file compression
compact /c "C:\path\to\file"
 
# View NTFS permissions
icacls "C:\path\to\file"

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