What is a cloud storage architecture that manages the data in a hierarchy of files?

File-based storage is a cloud storage architecture that organizes data in a hierarchical structure of files and directories. This method mimics traditional file systems, where data is stored in a structured way, allowing for easy navigation and retrieval by users. Each file can be identified by its path in the hierarchy, similar to how files are accessed on a personal computer.

In this architecture, files are managed as individual data entities, and operations like creating, reading, updating, and deleting files are straightforward, aligning well with the expectations of users who are familiar with traditional operating systems. This structure is beneficial for applications that require sequential access and specific file permissions.

Other storage options, such as object-based storage, manage data differently. Object storage treats data as discrete units with associated metadata and is optimized for scalability and unstructured data access rather than a hierarchical file structure. Similarly, content delivery networks (CDNs) focus on distributing content efficiently across various edge locations rather than managing files in a hierarchical manner. Databases, on the other hand, organize data in tables and rows, primarily focused on data relationships and structured queries rather than a simple file hierarchy. Thus, file-based storage is distinct in its hierarchical approach to managing data.