What is the main characteristic of HFS+ file system?

The main characteristic of the HFS+ file system, also known as Hierarchical File System Plus, is that it is a journaled file system. This means that it records changes in a journal before they are committed to the main file system. The journaling feature helps maintain consistency in the file system and protects against data corruption in the event of a system crash or power failure. By keeping a record of changes, HFS+ can quickly recover and restore the file system to its last known good state.

This characteristic of journaling makes the HFS+ file system particularly suitable for environments where data integrity is crucial, such as in server operations or personal computing where data loss could be detrimental. The ability to preserve disk states enhances the overall reliability and stability of the system, making it a preferred choice for macOS systems where it was primarily implemented.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of HFS+. For example, asserting that the file system is not journaled contradicts its defining feature. Claiming it exclusively improves data retrieval times overlooks the broader role of journaling, and stating it is used only for Windows is inaccurate, as HFS+ is specifically designed for the macOS.