file system metadata

File system metadata is data about files that the computer uses to manage and organize them. It includes details like the file's name, size, creation and modification dates, permissions (who can access or change it), and location on the storage device. Think of metadata as an address label for a file, helping the system find, identify, and control access to files efficiently. It doesn't include the actual content of the file but provides essential information for system operations and user management.