Storage Management
File Allocation Methods
Interactive simulation of file allocation strategies including contiguous, linked, and indexed allocation methods.
Allocation Method
Disk Configuration
Files to Allocate
Filename
Size
Action
Disk Layout
Total Blocks
0
Allocated
0
Free
0
Utilization
0%
Ready to Simulate
Configure your disk size and file list, then click "Run Simulation" to see the file allocation process.
File Allocation Method Information
Current Method: Contiguous Allocation
Files stored in consecutive disk blocks
Advantages:
- Fast sequential access
- Simple directory structure
- Minimal seek time
Disadvantages:
- External fragmentation
- File size must be known
- Difficult to grow files
University Exam Tips
- Draw disk layout diagrams for each method
- Show file allocation tables (FAT) for linked allocation
- Explain directory structure for each method
- Calculate access time for random vs sequential access
- Compare space utilization and fragmentation
- Discuss real-world file system implementations
Key Concepts:
• Directory Entry: Contains file metadata and allocation info
• File Allocation Table (FAT): Used in linked allocation
• Index Block: Contains pointers to data blocks
• Fragmentation: Internal (within blocks) vs External (between files)