How many bytes is each directory entry in a FAT file system?

In a FAT (File Allocation Table) file system, each directory entry is typically 32 bytes in size. This inclusion of 32 bytes allows for the storage of various attributes and essential details of the file or directory, including the file name, file size, timestamps, and the starting cluster number where the file data is located.

This specific structure is critical for the functioning of the FAT file system, as it allows the operating system to efficiently manage file access and ensure that the necessary information about each file or directory is available for retrieval and manipulation by the user or applications. The design of the FAT file system aims to balance simplicity and efficiency while accommodating the data storage needs characteristic of that system.