Offline folder files allow users to store network information on their computer when not connected to the network, making it possible to work independently. Windows XP and 2000 automate the process of adding, editing, and deleting files once the network connection is re-established. To configure, go to My Computer, click on “Folder Options,” and enable […]
Archive files are single files containing many other files, often in a compressed format, created by archivers. Zip and tarball files are common types of archive files. They are used for ease of sharing and efficiency, and in software development to create a static library of data for a program. Care should be taken when […]
Indexed files use unique identifiers to organize data into special file folders for easy retrieval and storage. Different types of indexing techniques are used in computer software engineering, including B-trees and hash tables. Internet search engines and programs like iTunes and social networking sites also use indexing to store and retrieve information efficiently. An indexed […]
A distributed file system allows multiple computers to share access to files and storage media across a network, with centralized control to minimize security risks. It differs from a shared disk file system and is often used on local area networks. A distributed data store is similar but allows users from different networks to store […]
A batch file is a text file containing commands for a command interpreter to execute. It can automate long projects and run multiple programs. The .bat extension is most commonly used, but .cmd may also be accepted. Autoexec.bat runs every time a computer starts up. Batch files can be created in any text editor and […]
Filename extensions indicate a file’s type and compatible programs. Operating systems use them to recognize different files, but newer systems can identify files through data. “8.3” is a common system with eight characters for the name and three for the extension. Some systems don’t require extensions and identify files based on data. Extensions can be […]
A file server is a computer used for centralized data storage on a network. It can be any modern computer and is often used for data sharing and backup. File servers can run on standard or specialized operating systems and are vulnerable to performance degradation and attacks. A file server is a computer connected to […]
Converting file formats can be simple by changing the file extension or using the “Save As” option. Some formats may require a special program. Image editing software can be used to convert image files. The task of converting a file to a new format can seem intimidating, especially if you haven’t done it before, but […]
File compression reduces the size of electronic files by replacing repeating sequences with smaller ones. Compression programs use algorithms to create a dictionary for the zipped file. Self-extracting files open automatically, but are larger than normal compressed files. File compression is a method used by computers to reduce the size of an electronic file or […]
Large file support refers to a computer’s ability to handle files over 2GB, which was the limit due to early computer architecture. With updates, the limit has increased to over 1TB. Large files are usually media or corporate databases and can cause crashes or destroy an operating system. Large file support is the ability of […]
PDF files allow for electronic document creation using any word processor or print media software. They can be shared and opened by anyone, regardless of their software. PDFs can be locked against modification and are commonly used for e-newsletters, contracts, and financial reports. Adobe® Acrobat® software is the original and most comprehensive tool for creating […]
Remote file inclusion (RFI) is a hacker attack on websites where a file is injected into the server, causing havoc based on the encoded content. It can cause DoS, data theft or vulnerabilities. Validation rules should be in place to prevent RFI attacks. Remote file inclusion (RFI) is a type of hacker attack that mostly […]
A pattern file is a small file with basic virus definitions that works with an antivirus program to identify potentially harmful files. It doesn’t have complete virus definitions and is designed to reduce the size of the file. It copies information from files and alerts the antivirus program if it detects a potential virus. Most […]
This text discusses file formats and their importance in modern computer systems. It explains how encoding works, how different software applications use proprietary file formats, and how encryption can protect sensitive files. It also mentions the MP3 audio format and the variety of video and photo formats available. Open file formats are recommended for easier […]
File sharing is the exchange of files between computers over the internet. It can refer to sharing on a closed network or with an unlimited number of users. Music and movie files are often shared, leading to copyright infringement. The rise of file sharing grew out of user demand, particularly for digital music. Peer-to-peer (P2P) […]
A BANG file is a nested, balanced grid file used in spatial databases to organize information into cells and improve search indexing times. It allows for distance as a factor in data relationships and can store information in overlapping cells. This organization makes data retrieval easier and provides insight into data relationships. A nested, balanced […]
Orphaned files are obsolete files on a computer caused by incomplete program uninstalls. They can be deleted, but caution is needed as some files may be used by other programs. Uninstall utilities and hard drive cleanup utilities can help prevent and manage orphaned files. An orphaned file is a file on a computer that has […]
A hierarchical file system organizes digital information through folders and subfolders, with the root directory at the top. It improves efficiency and is used in various operating systems. File paths show the location of data within the structure. A hierarchical file system (HFS) is used to arrange and organize digital information on a computer through […]
A journaling file system logs system updates before making permanent changes to maintain data integrity in case of a crash. It is vital for critical data processing environments and can be customized for performance and data integrity. PCs usually don’t need it, but home businesses might consider it. A file system journaling is a special […]
Extended file attributes are user-defined or application-defined metadata that provide additional information about a file or its contents. They are not always supported by all file systems or operating systems and can be used to classify files, store information for network administrators, and provide security and access restrictions. There is no formal standard for their […]
