File

A collection of data or information stored on a computer

For other uses, see File (disambiguation).

A file is a collection of data or information that is stored on a computer or other digital device. Files are used to store various types of information, such as text, images, audio, and video. They are an essential component of modern computing and are used in a wide range of applications.

Types of Files

Files can be categorized into several types based on their content and format. Some common types of files include:

• Text file: A file that contains plain text and is usually created using a text editor.
• Binary file: A file that contains binary data and is not human-readable.
• Image file: A file that contains graphical data, such as a JPEG or PNG file.
• Audio file: A file that contains sound data, such as an MP3 or WAV file.
• Video file: A file that contains moving visual data, such as an MP4 or AVI file.

File Extensions

Files often have extensions that indicate their type. For example, a text file might have a ".txt" extension, while an image file might have a ".jpg" or ".png" extension. These extensions help the operating system and applications determine how to handle the file.

File Systems

Files are organized and managed by file systems, which are part of the operating system. Common file systems include NTFS, FAT32, and ext4. File systems provide a way to store, retrieve, and manage files on storage devices such as hard drives, SSDs, and USB drives.

File Operations

Common operations that can be performed on files include:

• Creating: Making a new file.
• Reading: Accessing the data stored in a file.
• Writing: Modifying or adding data to a file.
• Deleting: Removing a file from the file system.
• Copying: Making a duplicate of a file.
• Moving: Changing the location of a file within the file system.

File Security

Files can be protected using various security measures, such as encryption, password protection, and access controls. These measures help prevent unauthorized access and ensure the integrity and confidentiality of the data.

Related Pages

• File system
• Text file
• Binary file
• Image file
• Audio file
• Video file
• File extension
• File manager
• File transfer protocol