Chapter 4 : APFS File System

What is APFS ?

The Apple File System also known as APFS was released in 2017 with macOS Sierra. 

It is Apple's most advanced and powerful file system yet. 

APFS has been designed from the ground up to take advantage of flash-based memory (read SSD and high-capacity USB sticks), rather than being a retrofit like its predecessor HFS+. This scaled solution has been designed for all devices, big and small,  in Apple’s lineup. 

APFS has better read/write speeds on SSDs. It is also capable of better storage space management abilities through superior coding. 

Users can expect improved performance from modern computers and mobile devices when running on APFS - making it an indispensable addition to macOS High Sierra.

Pros of APFS 

• Encryption: To keep up with Windows TPM technology, APFS offers built-in encryption based on AES 128 bit technology. 
• Snapshots: APFS takes a snapshot off the entire volume before installing a major update or installing and uninstalling software. This allows users to revert to a previous state should something go wrong. Windows users have already been used to this feature through System Restore from Windows XP onwards. 
• Performance: As stated before APFS has been designed to take advantage of flash memory. Reading and writing on flash memory is different from electromechanical hard drives. HFS+ was a not so good option. APFS is faster and works with TRIM technology that comes with SSDs. 
• Cloning: APFS is better at cloning. Many users like to run third party backup software to duplicate their hard disk elsewhere. APFS is efficient at backing up data.  

Cons of APFS 

• Legacy problems: The greatest disadvantage is that it is incompatible with older operating systems such as macOS 10.12.6 Sierra and before. If a user has multiple macOS laptops and devices transferring data can be a headache. 
• Lack of Windows support: Windows does not recognize APFS. This is a hindrance for those who use devices from both operating systems. 
• HDD issues: There is a concern that APFS might not be ideal for older spinning hard drives. Some users like to use HDD or at least a hybrid setup. 

Wrapping Up

This was a roundup of HFS and its many versions, avatars and features. 

These file systems led the way to modern NTFS and exFAT that is more feature rich but use the exact same principle.