What does an INode contain pointers to?

An INode, or Index Node, is a fundamental component of many file systems, particularly in Unix-like operating systems. It primarily serves as a data structure that contains information about a file or directory. One of the key functions of an INode is to store pointers to the actual blocks on disk that hold the data of the file. This means that when a file is accessed, the file system retrieves the INode associated with that file, which then provides the necessary pointers to locate the physical data blocks where the file's content resides.

By maintaining these pointers, the INode allows for efficient access to the data without needing to scan the entire storage structure. It also isolates the metadata, which may include file size, ownership, permissions, and timestamps, from the actual data content. This separation enhances performance and allows for better organization of data within the file system.

Understanding the role of an INode in providing pointers to the actual data blocks is essential for grasping how file systems manage and retrieve file data efficiently.