ext4 vs btrfs, and with btrfs do I still need to use LVM?
Linux - SoftwareThis forum is for Software issues.
Having a problem installing a new program? Want to know which application is best for the job? Post your question in this forum.
Notices
Welcome to LinuxQuestions.org, a friendly and active Linux Community.
You are currently viewing LQ as a guest. By joining our community you will have the ability to post topics, receive our newsletter, use the advanced search, subscribe to threads and access many other special features. Registration is quick, simple and absolutely free. Join our community today!
Note that registered members see fewer ads, and ContentLink is completely disabled once you log in.
If you have any problems with the registration process or your account login, please contact us. If you need to reset your password, click here.
Having a problem logging in? Please visit this page to clear all LQ-related cookies.
Get a virtual cloud desktop with the Linux distro that you want in less than five minutes with Shells! With over 10 pre-installed distros to choose from, the worry-free installation life is here! Whether you are a digital nomad or just looking for flexibility, Shells can put your Linux machine on the device that you want to use.
Exclusive for LQ members, get up to 45% off per month. Click here for more info.
ext4 vs btrfs, and with btrfs do I still need to use LVM?
Hi,
I was thinking of switching to btrfs when Slackware 14.0 is released. I would be using it on my desktop. I was wondering what are it's advantages over ext4 in it's current state, under the kernel that is going to be used in Slackware 14.0? Also, if I make the switch to btrfs, will I still need to use an LVM? I have read that it can pretty much do everything LVM can do, and that you don't need to use one to get it's features. Is this true?
Might look at the arguments in web pages of ZFS versus BTRFS for clues to any advantages. Those pages tend to have lists for what one does versus the other.
What do you need to have?
Install btrfs tools or see man page for simple commands.
I have used btrfs for years - never had a problem I didn't cause myself. Deliberately, that is.
Well, that and the fact apt performs appallingly (er, did in the past anyway) on btrfs due to all the fsyncs it (apt) does.
More than happy - just watch the space snaps can chew up. Time is very close where btrfs will be the default on (some) Enterprise Linuces. Says it all IMHO.
Oops - forgot the (main) question. Nope, you shouldn't need LVM unless you insist on a RAID level not yet available on btrfs
Last edited by syg00; 08-17-2012 at 04:16 AM.
Reason: Oops
From what I see, btrfsck is still not complete. I don't think any sane Enterprise Linux would ever consider using it until it is complete. I sure won't use it until btrfsck is complete, working, and tested. My data is far more important than some supposed performance benefits. Sure, I do backup my data, but I don't rely on my backups completely either.
I think I'm going to try it. It has some really neat features, and it will be interesting trying something new, and it seems stable enough. I'll just keep backups, and if something goes belly up, I can just reinstall and restore everything from the backup.
LinuxQuestions.org is looking for people interested in writing
Editorials, Articles, Reviews, and more. If you'd like to contribute
content, let us know.