Systems and methods for probabilistic data classification

Abstract

A system for performing data classification operations. In one embodiment, the system comprises a file system configured to store a plurality of computer files and a scanning agent configured to traverse the file system and compile data regarding the attributes and content of the plurality of computer files. The system also comprises an index configured to store the data regarding attributes and content of the plurality of computer files and a file classifier configured to analyze the data regarding the attributes and content of the plurality of computer files and to classify the plurality of computer files into one or more categories based on the data regarding the attributes and content of the plurality of computer files.

1 . A computer system comprising:
 a file system configured to store a plurality of computer files;   a plurality of scanning agents configured to traverse the file system and compile data regarding the attributes and content of the plurality of computer files; and   a file classifier configured to analyze the data regarding the attributes and content of the plurality of computer files and to classify the plurality of computer files based on a calculated probability that a file should be classified as a member of a category, wherein the calculated probability is based at least in part on the data regarding the attributes or content of the plurality of computer files.