Since these file systems are key to the operating system making sense of the data, an OS cannot read data off of a disk without support for the file system with which the disk is formatted. Since only binary data is actually written to disks, the file systems provide a way to translate the physical recordings on a disk to the format read by an OS. Understanding File System Problemsĭifferent file systems offer different ways of organizing data on a disk. So, let's take a look at the major file systems, and hopefully, you can figure out the best solution for formatting your USB drive. But it can be confusing understanding what devices and operating systems support which file systems - especially when all you want to do is transfer some files or keep your collection readable by all the devices you use. The most common file systems are FAT32, exFAT, and NTFS on Windows, APFS and HFS+ on macOS, and EXT on Linux -though you may run into others on occasion. How do you know your Mac, Xbox, and Windows PC can read your files? Read on to find your perfect USB drive solution.įile systems are the sort of thing that many computer users take for granted. It can be tough transporting your videos and music to every device you use.
