What Is Global File System (GFS)?

If you're seeking an easy way to share files between computers, the global file system (GFS) is the way to go. It's like a giant cloud storage space where you can access information anywhere. Yes, that is true. Any information can be stored on to it and can be accessed seamlessly from anywhere and everywhere, assuming you have the access or the keys to it. The only catch, you ask. It's not a cloud! It's a bunch of computers that are physically located everywhere. Don't worry. They're close enough together to operate as if they were one extensive network. GFSs are great when you need to share data with people who may not be in the same office or on the same continent. They're perfect for collaborating across time zones and borders, allowing everyone involved access at any time. Global file systems are a dream come true for anyone who has ever wanted to get away with something. Yet seriously, GFSs can be a lifesaver in some situations. If you and the other members of your team are working on a project together but are located in different locations in the world, using a global file system enables you to collaborate as if you were all in the same room even though you are physically separated. Global file systems are distributed, meaning that each node has direct access to the data. GFSs also have one or more clients that use them as if they were local file systems. They read and write to remote devices, similar to how they would apply to local devices. This allows them to organize their I/O so that it doesn't disturb your ability to read from or write to files on the system, so you can easily access them from wherever you are!