Understanding Computer Files

Computer Files

• A computer file is a collection of data stored on storage devices like hard drives or SSDs.
• Files can hold various content types: text, images, videos, software programs, and system data.
• Each file has a unique name and is organized within a directory structure.
• Files can be created, modified, and accessed by users and programs.

Computer Directories

• A directory organizes files in a structured way, acting like a virtual container.
• Directories can contain files and subdirectories, forming a hierarchical tree-like structure.
• The path to a file starts from a root directory, mapping steps through subdirectories.

Drive Letters

• Drive letters are alphabetic characters assigned to storage devices (e.g., C:, D:).
• They simplify the identification and access of file locations across different drives.

Windows File Explorer

• Windows File Explorer is the file management tool in Microsoft Windows.
• It provides a graphical interface to browse, manage, and organize files and directories.
• Users can view, move, copy, delete, rename files, and search for specific files or folders.

File Extensions

• A file extension is a suffix indicating the file's format or type, typically 3-4 characters long (e.g., .txt, .jpg).
• File extensions help the operating system recognize how to handle different file types.
• Common file types include:
  • .docx /.doc: Microsoft Word documents.
  • .xlsx /.xls: Microsoft Excel spreadsheets.
  • .pptx /.ppt: Microsoft PowerPoint presentations.
  • .pdf: Portable Document Format.
  • .jpg /.jpeg: Compressed image format for photographs.
  • .png: Image format supporting transparency.
  • .mp3: Audio format using lossy compression.
  • .mp4: Video format known for good quality and compression.
  • .zip: Compressed archive containing multiple files.
  • .exe: Executable files for Windows programs.
  • .html: Format for creating web content.
  • .csv: Tabular data format using commas.
  • .gif: Image format supporting static and animated graphics.
  • .txt: Basic text file for unformatted content.

File Associations

• File associations link file extensions to specific applications for opening and managing files.
• Users can change default applications for specific file types in operating system settings.

File Attributes

• Common file attributes include:
  • Read-Only: File cannot be modified.
  • Hidden: File not visible in standard listings.
  • System: Essential for operating system operations.
  • Archived: Marked for backup or archiving.
  • Compressed: Saved space by compressing the file.
  • Encrypted: Accessible only to authorized users.
  • Read/Write: File can be modified.
  • Indexed: Contents indexed for efficient searching.
  • Temporary: Intended for short-term use.
  • Offline: Stored in secondary or network locations.

File Dates

• File dates provide timestamps for tracking actions:
  • Creation Date: When the file was first created.
  • Modification Date: Last time the file was changed.
  • Access Date: Last time the file was opened.
  • Metadata Change Date: When the file’s attributes were altered.