inode

An inode is like a detailed record or catalog entry for a file on a computer. It stores important information about the file, such as its size, permissions, creation date, and where the actual data is stored on the disk. Think of it as a file’s "identity card" that helps the operating system locate and manage the file efficiently. However, it doesn’t include the file’s name; instead, names are stored separately in directory listings. Inodes are fundamental to how files are organized and accessed on Unix-like systems.