file format
A format for encoding information in a file. Each different type of file has a different file format. The file format specifies first whether the file is a binary or ASCII file, and second, how the information is organized.
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- file handle
A number that the operating system assigns temporarily to a file when it is opened. The operating system uses the file handle internally when accessing the file. A special area of main memory is reserved for file handles, and the size of this area determines how many files can be open at once. In DOS […]
- file infecting virus
A type of computer virus that inserts its malicious code into executable files on a system. When the infected file is opened or used the virus may overwrite the file and cause permanent damage to the content of the overwritten file. This type of virus targets a large range of operating systems, including Macintosh, UNIX, […]
- File Management System
)Also referred to as simply a file system or filesystem. The system that an operating system or program uses to organize and keep track of files. For example, a hierarchical file system is one that uses directories to organize files into a tree structure. Although the operating system provides its own file management system, you […]
- filename
The name of a file. All files have names. Different operating systems impose different restrictions on filenames. Most operating systems, for example, prohibit the use of certain characters in a filename and impose a limit on the length of a filename. In addition, many systems, including DOS and UNIX, allow a filename extension that consists […]
- fill
)(1) In graphics applications, to paint the inside of an enclosed object. Typically, you can choose a color and pattern, and then paint the object with a fill tool. The area that is painted is called the fill area. (2) In spreadsheet applications, to copy the contents of one cell to an entire range of […]