NFS, or Network File System, is a protocol that allows users to access files over a network as if they were on their local computer. Developed by Sun Microsystems in the 1980s, it enables file sharing between different operating systems, making it easier for users to collaborate and access data remotely. With NFS, files can be stored on a central server and accessed by multiple clients, streamlining data management. It operates over standard network protocols, allowing seamless integration into various environments, including Linux, Unix, and Windows. This flexibility makes NFS a popular choice for organizations needing efficient file sharing solutions.