Why Linux Servers Need File Compression

May 28, 2021

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File compression is a vital technique used by computer scientists to deflate different types of files.

(Source: Pixabay)

If you ever wondered how a 6GB audio, video, software, etc., gets reduced to 2GB or less, then that’s what file compression is all about. It is a fundamental technique for Linux systems and users.

This technique works by altering or encoding structured data before it gets stored in a computer. There are different tools and methods used for file compression for Linux systems. But the core question for many people is why file compression is essential for Linux.

Here are some fundamental reasons.

1. To Save Space

File compression on Linux helps in saving storage. A compressed file can reduce in size by over 50%, making it consume less space than before. For instance, you can cut down the space consumed by a file from 10 GB to at least 5GB if you use file compression techniques.

This technique also allows you to compress two or more large files simultaneously. After compression, you can then store them as a single file on a computer or server. This can help you save even more space than you could have done by compressing files individually.

Freeing up space on a server or computer can do a world of good to its users. It improves the efficiency and overall functionality of the device or server. Besides, it prevents low productivity which can result from a cluttered system.

2. Increase Computing Efficiency

One way to make your computer more efficient is by backing up data that you’re not using at the moment. Data backups free up space on your computer and Linux server, enhancing how you work. But then, backing up data in an uncompressed format can overwhelm your backup server.

It is, therefore, best to compress data first before you start backing it up. As mentioned earlier, there are several methods and tools that you can use for data compression. Techniques such as tar backup can help you store your data on a backup server in a compressed format and restore it later.

But then, you need to take time to learn the tar backup procedure to understand how to back up the server correctly and more efficiently. It would be best also to learn how to restore a backup to avoid losing important files or harm your entire system in the process. 

In the end, you can significantly improve how your computer works and helps you maximize time and other resources at your workplace.

3. Make File Transfer Quicker

(Source: Pixabay)

Another reason to compress your files for Linux is to make them portable. If you’ve sent small files before, you understand how quickly you can move them compared to large files. This is how file compression works; it reduces the size of a file and makes it more portable.

As mentioned earlier, portability makes it easy to upload files to a backup server. It also enhances file transfers from one device to another by making them smaller in size. You’ll also seamlessly upload files over the internet faster if you compress them first, making file compression a vital step.

4. Enhance File Integrity

Compressed files also save you the headache of your files getting flagged as corrupt. File corruption can be unpredictable, but it happens when you try sending large files online. This is because such files take a while to upload and send, making them prone to corruption.

Compressing large files into a zipped folder is one of the best things you can do. You can also prevent file corruption by backing up your files regularly. The Linux server OS prefers handling data that is up to date, and regular backups can help ensure that your data is current.

Zipped files also get corrupted while getting transferred despite being compressed and backed up. If this happens, there are various steps to restore your data. You can use a native Linux server OS repair tool, explore different recovery software, or restore the file from backup as a last resort.

5. Make Email/Web Page Uploading Easier

Sending large files over the internet can be a daunting task. For instance, some email services have restrictions on attachment size that you can upload and send. Or, you may require a lot of time to upload a single large file onto a webpage. File compression saves you the hassle and makes the process faster.

File compression makes large files smaller and easier to upload. You can cut down the size of a file to meet the attachment requirements of an email service before uploading it. If getting it on a webpage, you will reduce the time it takes to upload and publish when compressed.

6. To Enhance File Security

(Source: Pixabay)

Data security is a concern for everyone using the internet today. File sharing makes data susceptible to theft and access by unauthorized people. File compression is one of the best techniques that you can use to secure your data. Files automatically get encrypted when you compress them.

You can also add a password as an extra security layer to your compressed files. Protecting files prompts the recipient to enter a password before opening them. Any unauthorized person who gains access to your password-protected files may not do much with them unless they have the password.

There are tons of tools that you can use to encrypt your zipped files with passwords. Whatever tool you use, the aim is to ensure that your files are safe from prying eyes. Password protection combined with practices, such as regular data backups, can significantly help enhance file security.

Conclusion

This article has provided the reasons why file compression for Linux is critical. This technique plays an essential role in organizations, especially those that handle large data files. The primary reason why experts recommend it is because it significantly helps save storage on hard drives.

It also helps streamline functionalities for organizations and makes data transfer faster. It also enhances data security which is one of the essential things that businesses need. File compression is undoubtedly a beneficial and worthwhile technique for businesses using Linux systems.

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Daniel Martin has hands-on experience in digital marketing since 2007. He has been building teams and coaching others to foster innovation and solve real-time problems. Dan also enjoys photography and traveling.