A file system is a method used by operating systems to organize and manage data stored on storage devices like hard drives and SSDs. It allows users to create, read, write, and delete files, while also providing a structure for organizing these files into directories or folders. This organization helps users easily locate and access their data. Different types of file systems, such as NTFS, FAT32, and ext4, have unique features and limitations. They determine how data is stored, retrieved, and managed, impacting performance and compatibility with various operating systems. Understanding file systems is essential for effective data management and storage optimization.