What is a cluster in terms of data storage?

A cluster in terms of data storage refers to a larger unit of data than a sector. In the context of file systems, data is organized into manageable units for storage and retrieval. A sector is typically the smallest storage unit on a disk, which usually holds 512 bytes or more of data. Clusters are made up of one or more sectors; they help improve the efficiency of reading and writing data by enabling the file system to allocate space in a more streamlined manner.

When files are saved, they often occupy one or more clusters, depending on their size. This approach helps mitigate fragmentation and ensures better performance in accessing and storing files. Since the cluster represents a higher level of data organization than a single sector, it plays a crucial role in optimizing storage management within operating systems and file systems.