Which file system is used primarily by Apple Mac workstations?

The file system primarily used by Apple Mac workstations is HFS+ (Hierarchical File System Plus). This file system was developed by Apple and serves as the main file system for macOS versions prior to macOS APFS (Apple File System), which was introduced starting with macOS High Sierra.

HFS+ supports a variety of features essential for effective file management on Mac systems, such as journaling, which helps protect the integrity of the file system by keeping a log of changes. This can help prevent data loss during unexpected shutdowns. Additionally, HFS+ is designed to efficiently manage larger files and provides support for hard links and symbolic links, which are vital for complex file organization.

Unlike NTFS, which is used primarily by Windows operating systems, and FAT, which is a more universal file system compatible across various platforms but lacks advanced features, HFS+ is optimized for the specific needs and capabilities of macOS environments. ext4 is a file system primarily used by Linux operating systems, making it unsuitable for Mac workstations. Thus, HFS+ is the correct answer as it is specifically tailored for Apple's ecosystem.