Configuration files are electronic files used to store, change, or control settings of an operating system or program. They are prevalent in most major operating systems and can be formatted as plain text or XML files. Configuration files are used to control operating environment settings, preferences for numerous computers or programs across networks, and to specify hardware, system, or server settings. They are a standard tool used by software developers to modify programs they create. Configuration files can be edited using text editors or third-party programs.
A configuration file, sometimes referred to as a config file, is an electronic file used to store, change, or control the settings of an operating system or program. These files are prevalent in most major operating systems and are usually set up to be easy to edit. They are typically formatted as plain text files or Extensible Markup Language (XML) files. Configuration files can be used to control operating environment settings within certain programs that are unusually complex in their operation. They can also be used to control preferences for numerous computers or programs across networks.
The type of data provided in configuration files varies widely. There is no standard regarding the contents or layout of a configuration file, because it can differ according to supported applications. Certain file types, especially *.xml, or platforms may dictate the file structure. A configuration file can use any file extension but, in addition to *.xml, some other common extensions reserved for identifying a configuration file are *.ini, *.txt, and *.config.
Configuration files find common use in a wide variety of software and programs. They are a fairly standard tool used by software developers to modify the programs they create while avoiding the need to recompile the software’s source code. Some games use the files to determine the locations of game maps or character information. Other applications, such as those that create content, can take advantage of configuration files that contain variables such as the amount of system memory to reserve, the names and number of levels in a file, or user preferences such as hotkeys for certain program functions.
Sometimes a configuration file is used to specify hardware, system, or server settings. They are often used to specify properties associated with web servers. One of the most common uses of configuration files is to control the startup of a computer, including identifying programs that start with the operating system and pointers to drivers needed to control the hardware connected to the computer.
There are many programs available that can edit and create configuration files, in part because the files are usually plain text. Most operating systems come with text editors that can be used for the job, although low-cost third-party text editors are available to make the job more efficient. In the case of XML files, a large number of programs are available to perform the modifications. Occasionally, end users end up modifying configuration files by simply changing the settings in a dialog.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
