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10 Best Python IDEs and Code Editors 2024

10 Best Python IDEs and Code Editors 2024
JC Brian Refugia
Technical writer
Infrastructure

Python IDE (Integrated Development Environment)

An integrated development environment (IDE) is a package of software tools and capabilities designed to help developers write code. An integrated environment containing tools for code editing, debugging, testing, and other development tasks is usually offered by Python IDEs. These environments provide capabilities like code completion, syntax highlighting, and project management and are intended to make the development process more efficient.

Python Code Editor

A code editor is a more basic tool designed mostly for editing code. Code editors are quick, light, and very configurable, even though they might not have all of the sophisticated capabilities of IDEs. Code editors are frequently chosen by developers due to their speed and ease of use. Code editors can be used with a variety of programming languages, and they frequently allow plugins or extensions that offer features unique to Python development.

Choosing the right Python IDE (Integrated Development Environment) or code editor is important and will have a big influence on how you build applications. Here are key factors to consider when making your choice:

  • Usability

Consider on the general usability and user interface. Especially for beginners, a straightforward and user-friendly integrated development environment (IDE) or code editor can increase productivity.

  • Features and Integrated Tools

Explore the functions that the code editor or IDE has to offer. Syntax highlighting, code completion, debugging tools, version control integration, and support for virtual environments are examples of standard characteristics. Project management features, testing frameworks, and build systems are examples of integrated tools. The IDE's built-in tools can help you optimize your productivity.

  • Flexibility 

Think about if plugins or extensions are supported by the code editor or IDE. With flexibility, you can easily incorporate third-party products and alter your environment to suit your unique requirements.

  • Compatibility

Select an IDE or code editor that is cross-platform compatible. This ensures a consistent experience if you are working on different operating systems. 

  • Language and Community Support

Make sure the tool has top-notch Python support. It may seem apparent, but selecting a tool that is tailored to Python development requirements is essential

Consider the community's strength and the developers' level of support. A thriving community guarantees easy access to extensions, tutorials, and help, and continuous support keeps the tool updated.

  • Performance

Assess the IDE's or code editor's performance, paying particular attention to how well it handles the quantity and complexity of your projects. Verify that the tool functions properly on your workstation.

  • Cost

Think about how much the IDE will cost. Some can only be used with a license, but others are free and open source. Determine whether the features, given your needs and budget, outweigh any related costs.

  • Version update and maintenance

To ensure compatibility with the most recent Python versions, introduce new features, and repair issues, regular upgrades and maintenance by the developers are necessary.

  • Customization

Being able to customize the setting to what you prefer can have an important effect on how comfortable and productive you are when developing.

10 Best Python IDEs and Code Editors in 2024

Here are the popular Python IDEs and code editors: 

  1. PyCharm
  2. Spyder
  3. Eclipse PyDev
  4. IDLE
  5. Wing

Here are the best Python Code Editor: 

  1. Emacs
  2. Visual Studio Code
  3. Sublime Text
  4. Atom
  5. VIM

PyCharm

PyCharm is widely regarded as the finest IDE for Python developers, with the majority of professional developers using it in various industries. It is a cross-platform IDE created by the Czech company JetBrains. One really useful aspect is that it provides daily advice to help you become more knowledgeable about how to use it more effectively. There are two versions available: the professional version requires payment, while the community version is available for free. Here are a few other features of this IDE.

PROS:

  • Code completion, syntax highlighting, debugging tools, testing support, and integration with well-known web frameworks

  • Intelligent code assistance

  • Built-in testing tools

  • Powerful debugger

CONS: 

  • Learning curve. PyCharm might have a steeper learning curve compared to simple editors. 

  • Cost for professional version 

  • Start-up time might be longer than a lighter weight editor. 

Spyder

Another excellent Python-based cross-platform and open-source IDE is called Spyder. It is the lightest Python IDE and goes by the name Scientific Python Development IDE. Data scientists who are proficient in integrating Matplotlib, SciPy, NumPy, Pandas, Cython, IPython, SymPy, and other open-source software are the primary users of it. It has some nice advanced features including edit, debug, and data exploration, and it comes with the Anaconda package manager distribution. Here are a few other features of this IDE.

PROS: 

  • Designed for Scientific Computing.

  • Interactive Console.

  • Integrated Variable Explore.

  • Matplotlib Integration.

  • NumPy and SciPy Integration.

CONS:

  • Heavy Resource Usage.

  • Not as Lightweight as Simple Editors.

  • Limited General-Purpose IDE Features.

Eclipse PyDev

Combining the Eclipse IDE platform with the PyDev plugin, Eclipse with PyDev is an integrated development environment (IDE) for Python development. First popularized in the Java programming community, the Eclipse IDE is an open-source, extremely extendable IDE. On the other side, Aptana Inc. created PyDev, an Eclipse plugin for the Python IDE.

PROS:

  • It is compatible with a number of programming languages, and PyDev easily interacts with it to offer Python development features.

  • It supports Django, a popular Python web framework.

  • Integrated debugger.

CONS: 

  • Some users might find the learning curve more challenging, particularly those who are unfamiliar with the Eclipse IDE or who would rather use lighter, more straightforward editors.

  • It can be resource-intensive, particularly for larger projects.

  • Challenges with Customizing Interfaces.

IDLE

IDLE is a specialized software or platform for creating Python apps. It is a feature-rich editor for writing, editing, and running Python programs. It can also be used to run single statements, much like the Python Shell. IDLE for Python would be quite beneficial, particularly for novices. 

Notable features include call hints, code context, auto-indentation, basic syntax highlighting, and auto-completion of the code. There is a debugging tool included as well. One of IDLE's fundamental functions is Stack Viewer, which aids in tracking down the fault or exception that was encountered. Customizing fonts, keys, extensions, highlights, and other elements is also possible. IDLE is freely available and open-sourced.

PROS:

  • Lightweight and simple.

  • Bundled with Python.

  • Provides basic features such as syntax highlighting, code completion, and an interactive Python shell.

CONS: 

  • Limited features for advanced development.

  • Limited customization options.

  • Lacks advanced project management features.

Wing

An integrated development environment (IDE) made especially for Python is called Wing. It is produced by Wingware and is renowned for its emphasis on giving Python developers access to an effective toolkit.

PROS:

  • Well-known for its powerful interactive debugger.

  • Provides strong code intelligence capabilities, such as syntax highlighting, code navigation, and intelligent auto-completion.

  • Allows for customizations and expansion via scripting.

CONS:

  • It is a commercial product that needs a license to use its full-featured Professional edition.

  • Users may experience slower performance and increased memory usage for large projects or less powerful machines.

Emacs

Emacs was founded by Richard Stallman in 1976. The software is completely customizable, free, and compatible with all systems. For customization, Emacs leverages a version of the robust Lisp programming language; for Python development, a variety of customization scripts are available.

PROS:

  • It comes with an integrated package system (package.el) that makes it simple for users to add and manage packages, increasing the editor's capabilities.

  • It has several powerful text editing tools, such as numerous built-in commands, comprehensive keyboard shortcuts, and sophisticated search and replace.

  • It allows users to customize virtually every aspect of the editor by writing scripts in Emacs Lisp.

CONS:

  • It has steep learning curve

  • It can be resource intensive when working with large files or complex tasks.

  • Its unconventional interface deviates from the norms of contemporary apps by largely depending on keyboard shortcuts.

Visual Studio Code

A highly customizable, lightweight code editor developed by Microsoft, with a vast selection of extensions and excellent Python support.

PROS:

  • It provides a large marketplace of extensions and supports a broad variety of programming languages right out of the box.

  • It has strong code editing tools like code navigation, syntax highlighting, and IntelliSense (code completion).

  • Integrated Git Version Control.

CONS:

  • Customization complexity

  • It can consume a large amount of system resources when working with large projects or multiple extensions.

  • Users with less powerful computers can run into performance problems.

Sublime Text

A complex and well-liked text editor for prose, markup, and code editing is called Sublime Text. It is renowned for its quickness, ease of use, and wide range of customization possibilities. Will Bond and Jon Skinner created Sublime Text.

PROS:

  • Known for its speed and performance.

  • It supports a wide range of plugins and extensions.

  • It introduces the concept of multiple selection, that allows users to make changes in various sections of a document simultaneously. 

CONS:

  • It is not free.

  • It has less frequent updates.

  • It has limited integrated tools.

Atom

GitHub created the open-source text editor Atom. It is renowned for having an up-to-date interface and being extensible and flexible. Since Atom is meant to be a hackable text editor, users can add new features and personalize the program with a variety of packages and themes.

PROS:

  • Open source and free.

  • Modern and user-friendly interface.

  • Highly extensible and customizable. 

CONS: 

  • Slower start up time.

  • Less mature ecosystem and packages and themes. 

  • Limited built-in features.

VIM

Vim is a cross-platform, open-source text editor. On macOS and UNIX computers, it comes pre-installed; however, you must download it for Windows. This text editor functions both as a stand-alone program and as a command-line interface.

PROS:

  • It allows for quick navigation, editing, and manipulation of text using keyboard shortcuts.

  • It is highly customizable and extensible.

  • It is easily accessible on a variety of servers and development environments because it comes pre-installed on many Unix-like systems.

CONS: 

  • It is not beginner-friendly.

  • Limited out-of-the-box features.

  • Steep learning curve.

In a nutshell, IDE offers a full suite of tools for coding, testing, and debugging, whereas a code editor is solely designed for editing code and is typically more lightweight and adaptable. Depending on personal preferences, project objectives, and the difficulty of the development activities, one can choose between an IDE and a code editor.

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Infrastructure

Public vs Private IP Addresses: What’s the Difference?

Every network, whether it’s the entire internet or your home Wi-Fi, needs a way to tell devices apart. That’s where IP addresses come in. An IP address is basically a unique ID made up of numbers separated by dots. IP addresses can be public (or “white”), which are used to connect to the wider internet, or private (internal), which are used within local networks like your home or office. Also, IPs can be static (they stay the same) or dynamic (they change over time), and they follow one of two standards: IPv4 or the newer IPv6. In this article, we’ll break down what IP addresses are, how they work, and why understanding the difference between public and private IPs actually matters. What Is an IP Address and Why Is It Needed? An IP address (Internet Protocol Address) is a unique identifier assigned to every computing device on a network. It consists of numbers separated by dots. When a user visits a website, a request is sent from their IP to a remote server, which then responds with the web page. Without IP addresses, computers and smartphones wouldn’t be able to locate each other online. They wouldn’t know where to send or receive data. An IP address is comparable to a postal code, which tells the postman where to deliver a letter and tells the recipient where it came from. What Does an IP Address Look Like? All IP addresses are unique, since they identify individual devices in a network. However, they follow the same structural format. Examples of IPv4 addresses, which consist of four integers: 78.129.229.78 172.16.254.1 203.0.113.5 192.162.74.34 184.12.203.67 Examples of IPv6 addresses, made up of eight hexadecimal blocks: 2606:4700:4700:0db8:2001:1111 2001:4860:4860::8888 fe80::1a2b:3c4d:5e6f:7g8h 1050:0:0:0:5:600:300c:326b 2001:0db8:aa10:0001:7g8h::00fb Some IPv6 addresses may contain two colons in a row (::), which represent a sequence of zeroes. For example: Full: 2001:0db8:0000:0000:0000:0000:0000:1 Shortened: 2001:db8::1 However, the double colon (::) can only appear once in an IPv6 address, or else it would be unclear how many zeroes are omitted. For instance, the address 2001::5e6f::4860 could ambiguously mean: 2001:0000:0000:5e6f:0000:4860 or 2001:0000:5e6f:0000:0000:4860 If no double colon is used, then either the address is complete or contains full zeroes. Most operating systems allow local communication via a reserved domain name — localhost. Types and Categories of IP Addresses It’s important to distinguish between the types and categories of IP addresses. Categories of IP addresses: Public IP (Public): Identifies a device on the global internet. Private IP (Private): Identifies a device within a local network. Types of IP addresses: Static: The IP address remains the same each time the device connects to the network. Used by corporate servers. Dynamic: A new IP address is assigned each time the device connects. Used by home devices. Classification by protocol: IPv4: Four integers (0–255) separated by dots, 32 bits in size, up to 4.3 billion addresses. E.g., 192.168.1.1 IPv6: Eight hexadecimal blocks, 128 bits in size, nearly unlimited addresses. E.g., fe80::1a2b:3c4d:5e6f:7g8h In summary, categories define whether an IP is public or private, while types define whether it's permanent or temporary. What Is a Public IP and How Does It Work? A public IP address is a public (external) IP that identifies a computing device on the internet. Regular internet users connect to websites and game servers using public IPs. Domain names (like hostman.com), resolved through DNS (Domain Name System), are simply a user-friendly wrapper around public IP addresses. Thus, having a public IP is a prerequisite for any computing device to interact directly with the internet. What Is a Private IP and Why Is It Used? A private IP address is a private (internal) IP used to identify a device within a local network. The main purpose of private IPs is to conserve public IPs, which are limited in number. IPv4 uses 32 bits to encode IPs, yielding a range from 0.0.0.0 to 255.255.255.255, totaling 4,294,967,296 possible addresses (256^4, not 255^4, because counting starts from 0). With over 8 billion people on Earth, and each using multiple devices (laptops, smartphones, TVs, smart speakers, etc.), there's clearly not enough public IPs for everyone. This limitation is addressed with private IPs. These are used within local networks to identify multiple devices, all of which connect to the internet through a single public IP that represents the whole network globally. Private IPs solve several problems: Communication: Devices like computers, printers, servers, and storage systems can exchange data within a local network without each requiring its own public IP. Thousands of private IPs can coexist under a single public IP. Architecture: Enable dividing networks into subnets, like one for employees and another for guests. Security: Since private IPs are not accessible from the internet, they are shielded from direct attacks like DDoS or port scanning, reducing the risk of hacking. In short, private IP addresses: Enable local communication. Conserve public IP addresses. Reduce internet traffic load. Structure local networks. Increase device security. A practical example: A home Wi-Fi router connects multiple devices (PC, phone, TV, smart speaker). All these are part of the local network and have private IPs. However, the Wi-Fi router itself is part of the global Internet and has a public IP address. Converting a Public IP to a Private IP For an internal device to access the external internet, its private IP address is converted into a public IP using NAT (Network Address Translation) technology. The conversion occurs in several steps: Request: A device with a private IP sends a request to the Internet. Translation: A router with NAT receives the request and replaces the private IP with its own public IP. Response: The remote server receives the request from the router’s public IP and sends back a response. Reverse Translation: The NAT router receives the response and, using a matching table (a list of private IPs of internal devices), forwards it to the correct internal device. In essence, NAT rewrites IPs in data packets, enabling private IP devices to interact with the internet. There are several types of IP substitution: SNAT (Source NAT): Replaces IP in outgoing packets. Outbound requests from a private IP are forwarded through a public IP. DNAT (Destination NAT): Replaces IP in incoming packets. Inbound requests to a public IP are forwarded to an internal device’s private IP. PAT (Port Address Translation): Replaces IP in outgoing packets while retaining the original port. A variation of SNAT. Full Cone NAT: Replaces IPs in both directions. Connections can be initiated by internal or external devices. Combines SNAT and DNAT. Restricted NAT: Replaces IPs in both directions. Only internal devices can initiate connections. A limited version of SNAT + DNAT. Symmetric NAT: Replaces IPs for each unique connection, creating a new mapping every time. Only internal devices can initiate connections. A modified SNAT + DNAT combination. Until the world fully transitions to IPv6, which removes the limitations of IPv4, NAT will continue to be used in Wi-Fi routers, modems, and local networks. Of course, sharing a single public IP among multiple devices isn’t always ideal. For example, if three players are gaming on a remote server using the same Wi-Fi router, and one gets IP-banned for cheating, all three could be banned, which seems unfair. However, in such cases, rebooting the router may assign a new dynamic public IP address. Also, the router's bandwidth is shared among all connected users. So, the more devices are connected to a router, the slower the connection speed for each. Where Do public and Private IP Addresses Come From? Regardless of the IP type, a common question is: Who assigns these identifiers to devices? The answer is: DHCP. DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a technology that automatically assigns IP addresses to all new devices in a network. Whether it's a local or global network, IP assignment follows these steps: Discovery: A device connects to the network and sends a DHCPDISCOVER request for an IP. Offer: The DHCP server processes the request, finds a free IP, and replies with a DHCPOFFER, including IP, subnet mask, gateway, lease time, and DNS servers. Request: The device accepts the IP and sends a DHCPREQUEST. Acknowledge: The DHCP server confirms with a DHCPACK. The device is now authorized for the lease duration. In some cases, a private IP can be manually set on a device, which it then proposes to the DHCP server. A public IP can only be manually set if it is static and pre-assigned by an ISP. If an IP conflict arises (two devices use the same IP), the DHCP server reassigns IPs to both. Public vs Private IP: Key Differences Although public and private IPs are structurally identical, they differ in usage context: Characteristic Public IP Private IP Internet Accessibility Yes No Uniqueness Across Networks Yes No Security Lower Higher NAT Use No Yes Cost Paid Free Routing Global Local Manual Assignment No Yes Assigned By ISP Network Administrator Default IP Type Dynamic Static Public IPs are assigned by an ISP via a DHCP server and are required for global internet access. Private IPs are assigned by a local administrator (via DHCP or manually) and are for local network identification. A public IP can connect to the Internet directly. A private IP can only connect to the Internet through NAT using a public IP. Public IPs can be static or dynamic, while private IPs are typically static. When Do You Need a Public IP and When a Private IP? It’s incorrect to view public and private IPs as alternatives. For Internet access, a public IP is essential — without it, the global network is inaccessible. A public IP is needed when a device must be accessible from the Internet — typically web servers or game servers. A private IP is needed for identifying devices in a local network — such as computers, smartphones, routers, or printers. In reality, local and global networks are interconnected. Multiple devices in a local network may have unique private IPs, but all access the Internet through a single public IP. Conclusion Public IPs face outward to the global network; private IPs face inward to local networks. A public IP is essential for Internet access. A private IP is vital for internal network organization — separating devices and conserving limited public IPs. Public IPs are assigned by ISPs, while private IPs are managed by local admins. Both use DHCP to automate the process. Typically, public IPs are dynamic, and private IPs are static. A full shift from IPv4 to IPv6 will eventually eliminate the need for private IPs — but this will take time, resources, and infrastructure upgrades.
06 May 2025 · 9 min to read
Infrastructure

Structure and Types of File Systems in Linux

The Linux file system is a complex tree-structured system that begins at the root. It consists of directories and subdirectories. Every file and file system is interconnected. This structure follows the typical scheme proposed by the FHS — a standard supported by the Linux Foundation. Features of File Systems A file system is how files are named, stored, retrieved, and updated on a disk or storage partition. The file system's structure must have a predefined format that the operating system understands. The organization of a file system involves formatting, partitioning, and the method of storing organized data structures on a hard (or floppy) disk. Such a system shell is divided into two segments: metadata (file name, creation date, size) and user data. Your computer uses this file system to determine the location of files in your storage. For example, Windows' main file systems are NTFS, FAT, and FAT32. NTFS supports three types of file links: hard links, junction points, and symbolic links (NTFS Links). The NTFS structure is one of the most efficient and complex to date. Each cluster on the medium has an entry in the FAT table. Entries indicate the assignment of file parts to a cluster. Each file entry concatenates with other file entries, starting from the first cluster. Since the first FAT system could handle only eight-character filenames, some limitations were lifted in FAT16 and then in FAT32. Types of File Systems in Linux File system types offered during the installation of a Linux-based OS include: Ext Ext2 Ext3 Ext4 JFS XFS Btrfs Swap These file system types have different functionalities and sets of predefined commands. Ext — extended file system. It was introduced in 1992 and is considered one of the first. Its functionality was partly developed based on the UNIX file system. The initial goal was to go beyond the file system used before it (MINIX) and overcome its limitations. Today it is hardly used. Ext2 — "second extended file system". Known since 1993. It was developed as an analog of the previous file system. It implemented innovations in memory volume and changed overall performance. It allows storing up to 2 TB of data. Like ext, it has little prospect, so it should be avoided. Ext3 — third extended file system. Introduced in 2001. It surpasses the previous one in that it is journaled. A journaling file system is one that writes changes (updates) to files and data in a separate journal before these actions are completed. This file system uses an algorithm that allows recovering files after a reboot. Ext4 — fourth extended system. Created in 2006. It overcame many limitations of the third version. It is widely used today and is the default file system in most Linux distributions. Although it may not be the most advanced, it is reliable and stable enough, so it is commonly used in a wide range of Unix systems. Therefore, if you don’t want to overthink the pros and cons of the many file systems you can choose from, experts recommend sticking with this one. Alternative File Systems JFS — created by IBM in 1990. The name JFS stands for Journaling File System. It easily restores data after a power failure and is quite reliable. Moreover, it consumes less processor power than other file systems. XFS — high-performance file system. Created by Silicon Graphics. Originally intended for their IRIX OS, it was later ported to Linux. Today, XFS for Windows also exists. Created in 1990, XFS is a 64-bit high-performance journaling system shell. It works well with large files but not particularly with smaller ones. Btrfs — an alternative file system proposed by Oracle in 2009. It is considered a competing file system to Ext4, although the latter is generally regarded as the better version (faster data transfer, more stability). However, Btrfs has several unique advantages. Overall, it offers excellent performance. Types of Linux Files Linux file types include: regular file named pipe device file soft link (symbolic link) directories socket door File Types Purpose Regular files Storing character and binary data Directories (d) Organizing access to files Symbolic links (l) Providing access to files located on any media Block devices (b) Interface for interacting with computer hardware Character devices (c)   Pipes (p) Organizing inter-process communication Sockets (s)   A directory is a file containing other organized data structures (directories) and provides pointers to them. It acts as a folder in a filing cabinet (grouping related files). But while folders contain only files, directories may contain additional directories (subdirectories). A symbolic (soft) link points to the name and location of a specific file. When a user copies, moves, or otherwise acts on the link, the operation is performed on the file it references. Hard links are created separately. A hard link points to the actual data in the file just like a regular file. Apart from the name, there is no difference between the original file and a hard link pointing to the same data. Both files are regular files. A hard link can only be distinguished from any other regular file by the number of links each has. The number of links is shown in the second column of the ls -l listing. If the number is greater than 1, then additional hard links to the data exist. All physical devices used by Linux are represented by device files. Device files are classified as special characters or special blocks. Special character files represent devices that interact with Linux character by character. Printers are an example of such devices. Block-special files are hard and floppy disks and CD-ROMs interacting with the OS using data blocks. Device files are extremely powerful because they allow users to access hardware devices such as drives, modems, and printers as if they were data files. They can be easily moved and copied, and data can be transferred between devices often without using special commands or syntax. Linux OS Directories The Linux directory structure is tree-shaped (branching). It’s important to highlight a characteristic specific to Unix-like systems: these OSes aim for simplicity and treat every object as a sequence of bytes. In Unix, these sequences are represented as files.  Unlike Windows OS, which has multiple roots, the Linux file system allows only one root. The root directory is where all other directories and OS files reside (denoted by a forward slash /). The entire Linux folder structure is represented in a single directory called the root directory. Main Directories in the Root Directory /homeThis is the home directory. Since Linux is a multi-user environment, each user is assigned a separate object in the system, accessible only to them and the superuser. /bin and /sbinbin stands for binary. This is where the OS stores core program codes. Binary files are executable structured data containing compiled source code.sbin stands for system binary. This directory is reserved for software necessary for system recovery, booting, and rollback. /optStands for "optional". This is where manually installed applications and programs are stored. /usrusr stands for Unix System Resources. This directory contains user-level applications, unlike /bin or /sbin, which house system-level applications.Subdirectories under /usr include: /usr/bin – most binary programs /usr/include – header files needed for source code compilation /usr/sbin – directories for recurring tasks /usr/lib – libraries /usr/src – kernel source code and header files /usr/share – architecture-independent files (documents, icons, fonts)Originally intended for all user-related content, /usr has evolved into a location for software and data used by users. /lib, /lib32, /lib64These are directories of library files — programs used by other applications. /bootA static bootloader that contains the kernel's executable file and other configuration files needed to start the PC. /sysThis is where the user interacts with the kernel. It is considered a structured path to the kernel. The directory is mounted with a virtual file system called sysfs, serving as the kernel interface for accessing data about connected devices. /tmpTemporary files needed by applications during a session are stored here. /devContains special device files that allow software to interact with peripherals. Device files are categorized into character and block devices.A block device performs data input/output in blocks (e.g., an SSD), while a character device handles input/output as a stream of characters (e.g., a keyboard). /procproc stands for process. This directory contains pseudo-files that provide information about system resources. /runThis directory is mounted with a virtual tmpfs file system and holds runtime files related to active processes. These files exist in RAM and disappear when the session ends. /rootThe home directory for the superuser (administrator). /srvThe service catalog. If you use a web server, you can store data for a specific webpage here. File System and Data Storage Paths on Physical Disk Linux directories map the names of structured data to their addresses on the physical disk. Linux directories have a predefined size to store metadata. Files in directories use inodes (index nodes). An inode stores the disk block address and file attributes. Each directory and file information in Linux contains an inode, and the inode itself holds a list of pointers referencing disk blocks. A directory in the file system is an inode that stores information about all structured data names it contains. Another note about inodes: Inodes are unique, but the names pointing to these nodes are not. This is why inodes track hard links. Linux Architecture The architecture of Linux consists of the hardware layer, kernel, system library, system, and utilities. At the top is user space, where user applications run. Below this is the kernel space, where the OS kernel resides. There is also a specific library collection called the GNU C Library (glibc). This library provides the OS call interface that bridges the kernel and user applications. Both user applications and the kernel operate in their own protected address spaces. Each user process has its own virtual address space, while the kernel has a unified address space. The kernel structure includes three main levels: System Call Interface (SCI) – the top level that handles system calls (e.g., file writing). Core kernel code – an architecture-independent object shared across supported architectures. Architecture-specific code – forms the Board Support Package, designed specifically for the processor and platform of the given architecture. Linux architecture is examined from various perspectives. A key goal of architectural decomposition is to enhance understanding. Kernel Tasks The kernel performs several functions: Process management – determines which processes use the CPU, when, and for how long. Memory management – monitors memory usage, allocation location, and duration. Device drivers – serve as interpreters between hardware and processes. System calls – handle service requests from active processes. The kernel is invisible to the user and operates in its own realm (kernel space). What users see (browsers, files) exists in user space. These applications interact with the kernel through the System Call Interface. Linux Operating Layers Linux Kernel – OS software residing in memory that instructs the CPU. Hardware – the physical machine consisting of RAM, CPU, and I/O devices like storage, network, and graphics. The CPU performs computations, reads memory, and writes to RAM. User Processes – running programs managed by the kernel, collectively forming user space. These processes interact with each other via inter-process communication (IPC). OS code executes on CPUs in two modes: kernel mode and user mode. Kernel mode has unrestricted hardware access, while user mode restricts access to memory, SCI, and CPU. This division also applies to memory (kernel space vs. user space) and enables complex operations like privilege separation and virtual machine creation. Linux Distributions Above the OS kernel, a Linux distribution is a collection of applications (typically open-source). A distribution may include server software, admin tools, documentation, and various desktop applications. It aims to offer a consistent interface, safe and simple software management, and often a specific operational purpose. Linux is freely distributed and accessible through multiple means. It is used by individuals and organizations and is often combined with free or proprietary software. A distribution typically includes all software needed for installation and use. Popular Linux distributions include: Red Hat Ubuntu Debian CentOS Arch Linux Linux Mint These distributions can be used by beginners and system administrators. For example, Ubuntu is suitable for novices due to its user-friendly interface. Arch Linux is more suited to professionals, offering fewer pre-installed packages.
05 May 2025 · 11 min to read
Infrastructure

NVMe vs SSD Storage

Fast data retrieval is a need for the 21st century. The data transmission rate can greatly impact application response time, especially when it involves gaming, video editing, website hosting, AI, and machine learning.  SDDs evolved to overcome the shortcomings of hard drives. SSDs, in contrast to HDDs, utilize flash memory, which translates to performance. However, because of the SATA connection, standard SDDs failed to deliver high-performance storage solutions. That’s where PCIe and NVMe came in. This guide provides insights on NVMe vs SSDs. Is SATA a suitable option? Is NVMe good for server and hosting needs? What are the different variants?  SSD Variants There are several variants of solid-state storage, each with its unique characteristics and use cases. Solid-state drives come in different forms utilizing different hardware interfaces ie. IDE/PATA, SATA, and PCIe.  Here are all the different variants of SSD available in the market: IDE (Integrated Drive Electronics) / PATA (Parallel ATA): These SSDs are found in legacy systems. They use 40- or 80-pin connectors and are relatively slow because they are based on older technology. SATA(Serial ATA): In early 2000, the SATA became the industry standard. It uses 7-pin data and a 15-pin power connector. The generation of SATA interfaces matters. SATA I can offer 150 MB/s or 1.5 Gbit/s. SATA II and SATA III can offer 300 MB/s (~3 Gbit/s) and 600 MB/s (~6 Gbit/s) respectively. SATA SSDs are available in three distinct form factors: 2.5-inch, 3.5-inch, and mSATA. mSATA: The compact size of mSATA makes it a perfect fit for notebooks, laptops, and tablets. SCSI/SAS: SCSI can connect multiple devices to a single host adapter. It finds its application in legacy server racks. SAS is the recent version of SCSI. SAS can offer transmission rates up to 12 Gbps or 24 Gbps. Such speed enhancements make it suitable for data centers and enterprise storage. PCIe: PCIe establishes a fast connection directly to the CPU and underlying storage device, bypassing traditional interfaces. This direct connection makes high throughput possible. NVMe, utilizing PCIe, delivers ultrafast data transfer and improves application response time. NVMe can offer up to 2 GB/s or 4GB/s per lane. For instance, a 4-lane interface can reduce the transfer time almost by 4 times.  NVMe vs SSD Standard SSDs are designed to interface through SATA, whereas NVMe SSDs leverage PCIe ports for enhanced performance. PCIe transmits data through lanes, with each lane capable of transmitting data in both directions simultaneously (full-duplex).  Performance An NVMe SSD can be 20 times faster than a normal SSD. The ‘e’ in Non-Volatile Memory Express refers to a PCIe bus.  Gen 4.0 NVMe SSD can deliver up to 7500 MB/s while Gen 5.0 NVMe SSD can double that speed reaching 14500 MB/s. Contrary to this, a SATA SSD can deliver up to 500 MB/s. Despite the significant data transmission rate gap, it barely affects personal computing. However, in cloud and hosting solutions, it matters. When a server handles 1k simultaneous requests, high-speed SSDs shine with their I/O efficiency, boosting performance and ensuring smooth service even during peak demand. Power NVMe SSDs can consume more power than SATA SSDs, typically around 4-8 watts under load and 1-3 watts under idle conditions, due to the power-intensive PCIe interface.  Cost Despite the slightly higher price of NVMe-enabled SSDs, this reflects their superior performance capabilities compared to SATA III SSDs. NVME Advantages over a Normal SSD Parallel Data Transfer: NVMe leverages multiple lanes to transfer the data, unlike serial communication protocol, where only one bit of data can be transferred at a time. This in turn, improves data bandwidth and throughput. Occupies Less Space: NVMe comes in M.2 and U.2 form factor.  M.2 drives are 22mm wide x 80mm long while the majority of standard SSD comes in a 2.5-inch form factor and has dimensions 69.85mm wide x 100mm long x 7mm (or 9.5mm) thick. With modern laptops and motherboards, you can connect two M.2 drives at the same time. Faster Speed: In the previous section, we already made a comparison of speeds offered by NVMe in contrast to normal SSD. What to Look for in an NVMe Storage It's important to note that NVMe SSDs can vary in performance, endurance, and functionalities, which can have a substantial impact based on the specific use case. PCIe Gen 3 vs Gen 4 vs Gen 5 PCIe has evolved, with newer generations offering faster data transfer speeds and improved performance.  PCIe Gen 3 provides a maximum data transfer rate of 8 Giga transfers per second (GT/s) per lane, while PCIe Gen 4 doubles this to 16 GT/s per lane. PCIe Gen 5, the latest generation, further increases this to 32 GT/s per lane. Gen 4 doubles the bandwidth offered by Gen 3. PCIe Gen 4 still holds the bet for consumer markets. Form Factor These drives come in different physical sizes. M.2: M.2 are small-size drives that fit directly into the motherboard, ideal for laptops and desktops. SATA SSD also comes with M.2 form factor. U.2: Used in server and enterprise environments, connects via PCIe slots and typically offers higher endurance. U.2 comes with a 2.5-inch form factor PCIe Add-in Cards (AIC): Larger and used primarily for server or high-performance applications, requiring a dedicated PCIe slot. Heat Sink Many high-performance drives come with built-in heatsinks to help dissipate heat. Some Gen 4 drives, like the Samsung 980 Pro or Western Digital Black SN850 come with a heatsink for improved performance. Endurance (TBW or DWPD) TBW (TerraByte Written) shows the total data that can be written to the drive over its lifespan, while DWPD (Drive Writes Per Day) indicates how often the entire drive can be written per day, typically over 5 years. Hosting Aspect Opting for NVMe-based SSDs instead of SATA SSDs in hosting and SEO can have a substantial effect on performance and user experience. A bad user experience can hurt SEO rankings and visitor engagement At Hostman, you can grab NVMe-enabled cloud servers for $2 per month. Latency In a hosting environment, low latency is critical for ensuring fast and efficient data access and transfer. NVMe SSDs offer lower latency than SATA SSDs. This means faster response times for your website, especially in situations with high traffic or complex database queries. Uptime A high-performance drive is designed to provide reliable and continuous access to data over an extended period. It is built with enterprise-grade components and features that enable it to withstand heavy workloads and maintain its performance levels even under high-stress conditions. The drive may include features such as power loss protection, which helps ensure that data is not lost or corrupted in the event of a sudden power outage. Here, at Hostman, we provide 99.98% uptime. User Experience SEO involves not only rankings but also user experience. Hosting on NVMe-enabled servers can speed up website load times, keeping visitors engaged and potentially reducing bounce rates. For e-commerce stores, this could lead to improved conversion rates. Conclusion If you're running a smaller website with minimal traffic or non-resource-heavy content, you might not need to migrate just yet.  For SEO, speed is a critical factor. Google considers page load time and Core Web Vitals as ranking factors, meaning faster websites are more likely to rank higher.  If you're seeing slow page loads, frequent throttling, or lag during peak traffic times with traditional SSD hosting, NVMe hosting might be just the upgrade you need to avoid losing users and boost your rankings. Similarly, if you run a high-traffic website, such as an e-commerce store, media platform, or blog with rich multimedia content, the performance boost from NVMe storage can be a game-changer.  Upgrading to NVMe web hosting can improve the website’s performance. With Non-Volatile Memory Express hosting, you get top-tier speed, reliability, and efficiency, far exceeding traditional SSD hosting. However, NVMe's power isn’t always necessary for every type of website.
14 February 2025 · 7 min to read

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