What is the term for the table of contents of a hard drive?

The correct term for the table of contents of a hard drive is the File Allocation Table (FAT). This structure is crucial for file management on a hard drive. It keeps track of where files are stored on the disk and helps the operating system manage memory by noting which areas of the disk are occupied and which are free. When files are saved on the disk, the FAT is updated to reflect their locations, facilitating quick access and organization of files.

The choice of a Directory Structure refers more broadly to the arrangement of files and folders within a file system rather than specifically denoting the table used to track file allocation. A File Index could suggest a more generic system for indexing files but does not accurately describe the management of storage space like the File Allocation Table does. Similarly, a Disk Map may imply a representation of the data layout on the disk but is not the technical term used for the structure that directly tracks file allocation. Understanding the role of the FAT is essential for comprehending how data is managed and retrieved on storage devices.