Levytiedostot

Levytiedostot, often referred to as disk images or ISO files in a more specific context, are digital copies of the entire contents of a storage medium, such as a CD, DVD, or hard drive. These files act as a perfect replica, preserving the original file system structure, boot sectors, and all data exactly as it was on the source media. This allows the image to be mounted and accessed as if the original disk were physically present or to be used to create an exact duplicate.

The primary purpose of levytiedostot is for backup and archival. By creating an image, users can safeguard important data against physical media degradation or accidental loss. They are also crucial for software distribution, particularly for operating systems and large applications, as they enable easy replication and installation. Furthermore, levytiedostot are essential for virtual machines, allowing them to boot from a simulated optical drive or hard disk.

Common formats for levytiedostot include ISO, IMG, and DMG. The ISO format is particularly prevalent for optical media. Creating and working with these files typically involves specialized software that can read from and write to disk images. Mounting a levytiedosto allows the operating system to treat it as a virtual drive, making its contents accessible through file explorers.