A user saves a new file into a folder that already contains files.
Describe how the operating system prevents a new file overwriting an existing file.
Mark scheme
Award up to two marks for a linked description such as:
- Checks/compares the new file (name)/filename against the names of files already in the folder/directory (1) to see if the name is already in use (1)
- Refuses to save/allow the new file when the (file) name already exists (1) so the existing file is not replaced/overwritten (1)
- Prompts/asks the user to choose/enter a different (file) name (1) so both files can be saved without one replacing the other (1)
A point without a linked development can earn one mark.
For both marks, the development must follow/associate with the point.
Do not accept responses about defragmentation.
Do not accept the operating system making a backup copy, or warning the user that a file may be overwritten, without saying that the (file) name is checked or the new file is not saved.
Do not accept responses about process management or saving files to RAM.
Do not award a second mark for repeating the question, e.g. 'it stops the new file overwriting the existing file'.
Example answers and how they were marked
It checks the new file name against the names of files already in the folder to see whether the name is already in use.
Why: Linked point (1) and development (1).
It checks the file name against the names already in the folder.
Why: Creditworthy point (1) on its own; no linked development, so one mark.
It defragments the disk so there is room for the new file.
Why: Defragmentation is not accepted by the mark scheme.