What does a file server primarily store?

A file server primarily stores end user-created data, which includes documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and other types of files that users generate during their work. The primary role of a file server is to provide centralized storage, making it easier for users to access, share, and collaborate on their data across a network.

While operating system files, virtual machine images, and backup files are important in different settings, they are not the main function of a file server. Operating system files are essential for running the server itself and are typically stored on the server's internal drives. Virtual machine images are used in virtualization environments but are not the primary focus of a file server. Backup files are crucial for data recovery purposes, yet they are usually managed separately and may not represent the core purpose of a file server, which is to facilitate user access and collaboration on files actively in use.