Very Computer

by **B MA** » Sun, 24 Feb 2002 02:30:12

Hi,

I am wondering why I need to 'label' a disk drive (for instance, with
the format command).
What does a disk label enable me to do? What is its purpose? Does Solaris
need this label in order to access the disk?

Thank you in advance.
Antonio

by **Scott Howar** » Sun, 24 Feb 2002 13:43:11

> I am wondering why I need to 'label' a disk drive (for instance, with
> the format command).
> What does a disk label enable me to do? What is its purpose? Does Solaris
> need this label in order to access the disk?

The "label" is the part of the disk where Solaris keeps track of things
like the layout of the disk, where partitions are, etc, etc. So yes, you
do need one on all disks.

Sun disks usually come with a valid label on them, but if you purchase a
disk from a 3rd party, or you somehow erase the existing label on a disk
then you'll need to re-write a new one on it with format.

Scott.

by **B vd Zo** » Sun, 24 Feb 2002 19:59:47

> Hi,

> I am wondering why I need to 'label' a disk drive (for instance, with
> the format command).
> What does a disk label enable me to do? What is its purpose? Does
> Solaris need this label in order to access the disk?

This you write the VTOC (Virtual Table Of Contents) to the disk.
Its information about the disk layout. Partitions, sizes etc, etc.

Gtz,
Bas

Very Computer

'format' and disk labels

'format' and disk labels

'format' and disk labels

'format' and disk labels