SMB
SMB (Server Message Block) is a network file sharing protocol that allows applications on a computer to read and write to files and request services from server programs in a computer network. It is primarily used for providing shared access to files, printers, serial ports, and miscellaneous communications between nodes on a network. SMB enables seamless file and resource sharing across different operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, and macOS.
Developers should learn SMB when working on applications that require cross-platform file sharing, network-attached storage (NAS) systems, or enterprise environments where Windows-based file servers are prevalent. It is essential for implementing file synchronization, backup solutions, and accessing shared resources in corporate networks, as it facilitates interoperability between diverse systems and supports features like authentication, encryption, and distributed file systems.