EXT1EXT2

EXT1EXT2 is a hypothetical file system proposed as a hybrid that merges the legacy principles of the original ext1 with the feature set of ext2 and subsequent ext families. The concept aims to provide a transitional path for systems still storing data on ext1 and ext2 while enabling modern capabilities such as journaling, online resizing, and improved metadata integrity.

Its design closely preserves the ext2-inspired on-disk structure, including a superblock, group descriptors, inode tables, and data blocks, while adding a flexible metadata layer and optional journaling. It supports a range of block sizes, scalable inode management, and mechanisms intended to improve reliability and repair performance. The project envisions compatibility layers that allow ext1 and ext2 tools to operate with EXT1EXT2 volumes in read-only or read-write modes, alongside a straightforward migration path to modern ext formats.

In practice, EXT1EXT2 remains a theoretical construct rather than a deployed standard. No widely adopted kernel implementation exists, and public prototypes are described primarily in academic or speculative discussions. The primary motivation is archival continuity and smooth transition to newer ext variants, rather than introducing a separate ecosystem of tooling. It is presented as a conceptual bridge to enhance interoperability between legacy ext formats and contemporary filesystem features.

Related topics include ext1, ext2, ext3, and ext4, as well as discussions on compatibility between legacy on-disk formats and modern extension features.