Windows Metafile

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Windows Metafile (WMF) is a graphics file format originally designed for Microsoft Windows in the early 1990s. It is used primarily for vector graphics, although it can also include raster graphics. WMF files are used to store a sequence of drawing commands that can be rendered to display an image.

History

The Windows Metafile format was introduced with the release of Microsoft Windows 3.0 in 1990. It was designed to be a device-independent format that could be used to transfer graphics between different applications and devices. Over time, WMF was succeeded by the Enhanced Metafile (EMF) format, which offered improved features and greater flexibility.

File Structure

A WMF file consists of a series of records, each of which contains a command for drawing a shape or performing an operation. These records are stored in a binary format and can include commands for drawing lines, shapes, and text, as well as commands for setting colors and other attributes.

Usage

WMF files are commonly used in Microsoft Office applications, such as Microsoft Word and Microsoft PowerPoint, to embed vector graphics in documents and presentations. They are also used in various other applications that require the ability to store and transfer vector graphics.

Enhanced Metafile (EMF)

The Enhanced Metafile (EMF) format was introduced with Microsoft Windows NT and offers several improvements over the original WMF format. EMF files support a wider range of graphics commands and can store more complex images. They also include additional features for better compatibility with modern graphics hardware and software.

Security Concerns

WMF files have been associated with security vulnerabilities, particularly in the context of malware attacks. In 2005, a vulnerability in the handling of WMF files was discovered that allowed attackers to execute arbitrary code on a victim's computer. This led to increased scrutiny of the format and the implementation of security measures to mitigate such risks.

Related Pages

• Vector graphics
• Raster graphics
• Microsoft Windows
• Microsoft Office
• Microsoft Word
• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Microsoft Windows NT
• Malware

See Also

• Graphics file formats
• Image file formats
• Computer graphics