A distributed file system allows multiple computers to share access to files and storage media across a network, with centralized control to minimize security risks. It differs from a shared disk file system and is often used on local area networks. A distributed data store is similar but allows users from different networks to store information.
A distributed file system is a file system that allows multiple computers on a network to share access to files. This shared access allows both files and storage media to be shared across the network. This can allow computers with minimal storage space to access and edit large files.
Many modern file systems allow for “file sharing” with other computers on the network. This is an example of a distributed file system. In these cases, the only files accessible to users on the network are those that have been intentionally shared by the user.
A file system can be considered a distributed file system only if it satisfies two requirements. The first is that the system must allow multiple users to access files from different computers across a network. The second requires that the file system not be on a physical disk shared by each of the computers. If the file system is on a disk shared by computers, it is known as shared disk file system.
There are many advantages to using a distributed file system over a shared disk file system. Shared disk systems allow each user to directly access the storage disk. This allows each computer to have a high degree of control over the storage disk, which can potentially pose a security risk. Distributed file systems, on the other hand, allow indirect access via a network protocol.
Using indirect access via network protocols allows the central storage device to regulate file access for all users. This can range from allowing some users read-only access to files to denying access to certain files. By centralizing this control, a distributed file system minimizes potential security holes.
Another related system is known as a distributed data store. This system is similar and allows users to store information on a variety of network systems. In return, users accessing the distributed data repository will allow other users to store information on their system.
The difference between a distributed file system and a distributed data store is often confusing. The main difference usually comes from the different settings for using these systems. Distributed file systems are typically used on local area networks, limiting access by users outside the network. Conversely, distributed data stores often have users from many different networks.
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