A system and method for accomplishing improved file access within a Joint Tactical Radio System (JTRS) Software Component Architecture (SCA) system environment is described. A file access class may be added to an existing JTRS SCA system, the added file access class being an instance of a JTRS SCA file access class. Using this system and method, clients requesting access to a file may be allowed to use more direct file access methods, bypassing a JTRS SCA service, if the file of interest is local to the requesting client's environment, e.g. local to the same processor. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract which will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims.