In Windows, what is the purpose of NTFS?

The purpose of NTFS, or New Technology File System, in Windows is primarily to control and enforce file access permissions. NTFS is a file system that supports advanced data management features, including file and directory permissions, encryption, disk quota limits, and rich metadata. This allows system administrators to set specific permissions for users and groups, thus ensuring that sensitive data is only accessible by authorized individuals.

By enforcing file access permissions, NTFS plays a crucial role in maintaining data security and integrity within the operating system. This is particularly important in environments where multiple users operate on a shared system or network, as it helps prevent unauthorized access and data breaches.

The other responses refer to various functionalities that can be associated with file systems in a more general sense, but do not capture the primary role of NTFS regarding security and access control. While NTFS does contribute to performance, multi-user access, and data backup in broader contexts, its standout feature that distinctly marks its utility in Windows environments is its robust file access control capabilities.