CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

Why is block-level access typically more efficient than file-level access?

1. It requires more bandwidth

2. It allows for quicker read and write operations

3. It keeps files intact during data transfer

4. It enables file-level sharing across devices

The correct answer is: It allows for quicker read and write operations

Block-level access is generally considered more efficient than file-level access primarily because it facilitates faster read and write operations. In block-level access, data is stored and retrieved in fixed-sized blocks, making it possible for the system to read or write large chunks of data at once. This method is particularly optimized for performance since it reduces the overhead associated with managing individual files, allowing for more streamlined data movements. The efficiency gains come from how block-level storage systems handle data. Operations like seeks and reads can occur in parallel, and since data can be written directly to the block without needing to go through a file system's additional layers, this results in lower latency and improved throughput. This approach is particularly advantageous for applications that require high-performance storage solutions, such as virtual machines or databases, where quick data access is critical. In contrast, the other options do not accurately depict the primary advantage of block-level access, focusing instead on concerns that do not directly address the efficiency of data access methods.