What is the difference between a file and a directory?

First of all, it is necessary to define these two terms. A file is an information block that has its own name, logical representation and a unique set of attributes. A directory is a file system object that contains information about the files in it and simplifies their structuring. For example, the files can be mp3 audio files, and the directories can be the “music” folder, which includes the subfolders “metal”, “techno” and the like.

The file has an extension, the directory does not. Changing file attributes does not affect other files. Changing the properties of a directory affects all directories and files contained in it. The file has only its own data, and does not have data from third-party files and directories. The directory includes its own information, information about child files and folders, has a certain hierarchical structure.