What is HFSPlus?
HFSPlus (Hierarchical File System Plus) is a way that computers organize and store files on a hard drive or SSD. It was created by Apple and used as the default file system for macOS computers for many years.
Let's break it down
- Hierarchical: arranged like a tree, with folders inside folders.
- File System: the set of rules that tells the computer how to keep track of data.
- Plus: an improved version of the older HFS system, adding more features.
- Organize and store files: decide where each document, picture, or program lives on the drive.
- Default: the one that the system automatically uses unless you choose something else.
Why does it matter?
Understanding HFSPlus helps you manage data on older Macs, recover lost files, and choose the right storage format when moving files between different computers.
Where is it used?
- Older Mac computers (macOS versions before High Sierra).
- External hard drives or USB sticks formatted for Mac users.
- Network attached storage devices that need to be compatible with legacy Mac systems.
- Some virtual machine images that emulate older macOS environments.
Good things about it
- Supports large files and large volumes (up to several terabytes).
- Allows case-sensitive or case-insensitive naming, giving flexibility.
- Includes built-in journaling, which helps protect data after crashes.
- Provides Unicode support, so file names can include many international characters.
- Well-integrated with macOS features like Time Machine backups.
Not-so-good things
- Slower performance compared to newer file systems like APFS, especially with many small files.
- Limited support on non-Apple operating systems, making cross-platform sharing harder.
- Lacks some modern features such as native encryption and snapshots.
- Can become fragmented over time, which may reduce speed on mechanical drives.