Cleaning filesystems

The root filesystem must be ``cleaned'' (checked and cleared of any inconsistencies) using fsck(ADM) if the following message is displayed:

   fsstat: root filesystem needs checking
   OK to check the root filesystem (/dev/root) (y/n)?

To clean the filesystem, enter y (for ``yes'') and press the <Enter> key. fsck cleans the filesystem, repairing damaged files or deleting files that cannot be repaired. It reports on its progress as each step is completed. At some point, you may be asked if you wish to salvage a file. Always answer by entering y or n and pressing the <Enter> key. You can also enter y! and yes answers will be assumed for all succeeding prompts. For an explanation of how fsck works, refer to ``Filesystem check phases (HTFS, EAFS, AFS, S51K)''.

There are two cases where cleaning will be skipped (or shortened considerably):

Intent logging

If ``intent logging'' is enabled on the filesystem, it is unlikely that cleaning will be necessary; fsck will not be invoked in this case. If any cleaning is necessary, a ``fast fsck'' will be performed that replays the transaction log for the filesystem. This process lasts several seconds (instead of minutes). See ``Logging filesystem transactions'' for more information.

DTFS filesystems

DTFS filesystems are extremely stable and normally do not require cleaning. When cleaning is necessary, no intervention is needed. See ``Filesystem check phases (DTFS)'' for more information. In some cases, a DTFS root filesystem will be rebooted after checking if many changes had to be made to repair the filesystem.

When cleaning is complete, the system asks you to choose the mode of operation.