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Technology Glossary

File Type

Dibyani Das
DD
by Dibyani Das
File types help store organizational data in various formats. Learn more about file types, file reader software, and how G2 can help organizations make the best decision for their business.
DefinitionFile Type Software

In this post

In this post

What is a file type?

File types define how files and organizational data are stored in a business. A file type is usually identified by the file extension and the applications associated with the file. Each stored file can have multiple file extensions but a single file format.

A file format defines the way data is stored in a file. Since every business is dependent on storing their data in various file formats and types, it’s highly recommended that file reader software is used for a seamless file retrieval experience.

File Type Software
Software that mention file type as a feature or term.
Google Workspace
Google Workspace
Dropbox
Dropbox
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Acrobat
Adobe Acrobat
Notepad++
Notepad++
Microsoft OneDrive for Business
Microsoft OneDrive for Business

Types of files

Files can be stored in a variety of ways. There are twenty main types of files.

  • Text files: A text file is a file that contains lines of electronic text. Common extensions for this file type include .doc, .docx, .rtf, .txt, and .pages.
  • Data files: A data file is a file that contains input and output data to be used by a computer program. Common extensions for this file type include .csv, .sdf, .ppt, .pptx, and .xml.
  • Audio files: Audio files contain digital  audio content to be stored in a computer. Common extensions for this file type include .mp3, .wav, .m4a, and .wma.
  • Video files: A video file is a type of file used to store digital video content on a computer system. Common extensions for this file type include .mp4, .mpg, .wmv, .m4v.
  • 3D image files: A 3D image file is used to store three-dimensional modeling data. Common extensions for this file type include .max, .obj, and .3dm.
  • Raster image files: A raster image file is a collection of pixels that define an assortment of colors to be displayed on a screen. Common extensions for this file type include .psd, .tiff, .bmp, and .png.
  • Vector image files: Vector image files are graphic files commonly used for print and digital graphics. Common extensions for this file type include .ai, .eps, and .spg.
  • Page layout files: Page layout files contain both text and image data to create printable publications. Common extensions for this file type include .indd, .pct, and .pdf.
  • Database files: Database files are used to store objects from a database repository in a structured manner. Common extensions for this file type include .db, .mdb, and .sql.
  • Executable files: An executable file is a computer program that launches when the file is opened. Common extensions for this file type include .exe, .apk, and .jar.
  • Game files: A game file contains executable information and files about a particular game. Common extensions for this file type include .gam, .rom, and .sav.
  • Web files: Web files are files related to websites and web applications. Common extensions for this file type include .asp, .aspx, .html, and .php.
  • Plugin files: Plugin files are used to create additional functionalities for business applications. Common extensions for this file type include .crx and .plugin.
  • System files: A system file is required for the smooth functioning of an operating system for a computer. Common extensions for this file type include .fnt, .fon, and .ttf.
  • Settings files: Setting files or configuration files contain information about the start parameters and functionalities of business applications. Common extensions for this file type include .dll, .ink, and .sys.
  • Compressed files: A compressed file contains files or directories smaller than the original file size for easy storage. Common extensions for this file type include .zip, .pkg, and .rar.
  • Backup files: A backup file contains backup information for important files. Common extensions for this file type include .bak and .tmp.
  • Disk Image files: A disk image file contains the entire information of a disk in a single file. Common extensions for this file type include .dmg and .mdf.
  • Encoded  files: Encoded files contain files in an encoded format. Common extensions for this file type include .hqx, .mim, and .uue.
  • Miscellaneous files: Independent files that are needed to work with multiple business applications are called miscellaneous files. Common extensions for this file type include .msi and .ics.

Uses of file types

Developers and organizations use different types of files to store, manage, retrieve, and use business data.

  • File types are essential in identifying which applications should be used to open certain files. The associated applications can be identified from the file extensions. 
  • File types and extensions help developers and business stakeholders identify the file contents without actually opening them. They also help in grouping similar types of files together for easier access.
  • File types can help verify a file’s trustworthiness before it’s opened. Emails containing executable (.exe) files are tagged as malicious by security teams and employees, discouraging them from opening any such links.

Basic elements of files

Every file storing organizational data has a few basic elements to make it recognizable and easily accessible for its stakeholders. 

  • Filename: An unique name given to a file to help identify it.
  • File extension: Group of letters found after a filename, that identify the type and format of the file.
  • File metadata: It stores information such as creation date, modified date, size, creator, and type of the file.

Best business practices for using file types

File types provide an easy way to categorize business files, and it’s necessary to have a system in place to use them optimally. Below are some essential practices that need to be followed to create a well-managed file system: 

  • Group files according to their file types. This makes them easily accessible.
  • Use good naming conventions for files so that duplicates can be filtered out.
  • Document the file management process for future reference.
  • Store business files in shared folders and locations where everyone with appropriate access can retrieve them. 
  • Use file reader software to identify the type of file and onboard the compatible applications.

File types vs. file formats

File types and file formats are often thought to mean the same but are different.

File Type vs. File Format

 

Dibyani Das
DD

Dibyani Das

Dibyani is a former Content Marketing Specialist at G2. In her free time, you can find her scribbling fanfiction and brushing up her knowledge on various fandoms (Harry Potter, mostly).

File Type Software

This list shows the top software that mention file type most on G2.

Google Workspace

Google Workspace enables teams of all sizes to connect, create and collaborate. It includes productivity and collaboration tools for all the ways that we work: Gmail for custom business email, Drive for cloud storage, Docs for word processing, Meet for video and voice conferencing, Chat for team messaging, Slides for presentation building, shared Calendars, and many more.

Dropbox

Dropbox lets you save and access all your files and photos in one organized place, and share it with anyone. Whether you run a solo biz or lead a large, complex team, Dropbox helps your work flow better.

Adobe Photoshop

Software delivers even more imaging magic, new creative options, and the Adobe Mercury Graphics Engine for blazingly fast performance.

Adobe Acrobat

Adobe Acrobat means a more seamless experience for your users, fewer hassles for your IT team.

Notepad++

Notepad++ is a free, open-source text and source code editor for Windows, designed to provide a lightweight yet powerful alternative to the standard Notepad. Developed in C++ and utilizing the Scintilla editing component, it offers enhanced performance and a wide array of features tailored for developers and general users alike. Key Features and Functionality: - Syntax Highlighting and Folding: Supports over 70 programming, scripting, and markup languages, including C, C++, Java, HTML, XML, and Python, facilitating easier code reading and organization. - Tabbed Document Interface: Allows users to work with multiple open files within a single window, enhancing productivity and ease of navigation. - Auto-Completion: Provides suggestions for code completion, reducing typing effort and minimizing errors. - Search and Replace with Regular Expressions: Enables powerful text manipulation capabilities across multiple documents. - Multi-View and Multi-Edit: Supports split-screen editing and synchronized scrolling, allowing simultaneous editing of different parts of a document or multiple documents. - Macro Recording and Playback: Automates repetitive tasks by recording sequences of actions for later use. - Plugin Support: Extensible through a robust plugin architecture, with over 140 plugins available to add functionalities such as FTP support, spell checking, and more. Primary Value and User Solutions: Notepad++ addresses the need for a versatile and efficient text editor that caters to both simple text editing and complex coding tasks. Its lightweight design ensures quick startup and responsiveness, while the extensive feature set supports a wide range of programming and scripting needs. By offering a customizable interface, support for numerous languages, and the ability to handle large files, Notepad++ enhances productivity and streamlines the development process for programmers, web developers, and general users seeking an advanced text editing solution.

Microsoft OneDrive for Business

With Microsoft OneDrive you can store any file on your SkyDrive and it's automatically available from your phone and computers. No syncing or cables needed.

Adobe Acrobat Reader

The free global standard for reliably viewing, printing, and commenting on PDF documents

Snagit

Quickly create images and videos to give feedback, solve a problem, or show off something cool.

Box

Box is the leader in Intelligent Content Management, helping teams securely manage, collaborate, and automate their work with AI-powered tools. It provides one secure platform for the entire content lifecycle, from storing and sharing to signing, automating, and activating content with AI. With Box AI, teams can query documents, summarize reports, and streamline processes across departments.Box enforces advanced security and compliance with HIPAA, GDPR, FINRA, and FedRAMP certifications, plus AI guardrails that protect data in motion and at rest. Trusted by AstraZeneca, Morgan Stanley, and the U.S. Air Force, Box powers mission-critical collaboration across regulated industries and global businesses. With over 1,500 integrations, including Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Salesforce, Slack, and DocuSign, Box connects seamlessly with your everyday tools.APIs and SDKs enable customization so Box adapts to your workflows.

Adobe Illustrator

Vector graphics software used by designers of all types who want to create digital graphics, illustrations, and typography for all kinds of media: print, web, interactive, video, and mobile.

UltraEdit

UltraEdit is a powerful text editor and code editor for Windows, Mac, and Linux that supports nearly any programming language and easily handles huge (4+ GB) files. Includes (S)FTP, SSH console, powerful find/replace with Perl regex support, scripting / macros, and more.

VideoLan

DVBlast is a lightweight and robust streaming application developed by VideoLAN, designed for streaming digital TV (DVB) channels over a network. It operates by accessing a DVB device, tuning it to the desired frequency, applying PID filters, configuring a Conditional Access Module (CAM), and demultiplexing the transport stream packets to multiple RTP outputs. DVBlast is intended to serve as the core of custom Integrated Receiver Decoders (IRD) or Conditional Access Systems (CAS) on Linux-based PCs equipped with compatible DVB hardware. Key Features and Functionality: - Minimal Resource Usage: DVBlast is engineered for environments with limited memory and CPU resources, ensuring efficient performance without unnecessary overhead. - Broad Input Support: It supports various input methods, including DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-C, DVB-T devices, DVB-ASI cards, and UDP/RTP streams carrying transport streams. - Flexible Output Options: The application can output multiple RTP streams with options for hardware or software PID filtering, PID-based or service-based demultiplexing, and optional descrambling via CAM devices. - Stability and Reliability: Designed for continuous 24/7 operation, DVBlast emphasizes stability and minimal interference with the original stream source. - IPv6 Support: It includes support for IPv6 networks, accommodating modern networking requirements. - Open Source: Released under the GPLv2 license, DVBlast allows for community contributions and customization. Primary Value and User Solutions: DVBlast addresses the need for a straightforward, efficient, and reliable tool to stream DVB channels over networks without the complexities of transcoding or remultiplexing. Its focus on stability and minimal resource consumption makes it ideal for setting up custom IRD or CAS solutions, particularly in scenarios requiring continuous, uninterrupted streaming. By supporting a wide range of input methods and offering flexible output configurations, DVBlast provides users with a versatile solution for their digital TV streaming needs.

Slack

Slack brings all your communication together in one place. It’s real-time messaging, archiving and search for modern teams.

Microsoft 365

Office Productivity Suite Includes Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Canto

Canto's digital asset management technologies enable organizations to manage digital content.

GIMP

GIMP is a cross-platform image editor available for GNU/Linux, macOS, Windows and more operating systems. It is free software, you can change its source code and distribute your changes.

OpenOffice

Apache OpenOffice is a free and open-source productivity suite that offers a comprehensive set of applications for various office tasks. It includes Writer for word processing, Calc for spreadsheets, Impress for presentations, Draw for graphics, Base for database management, and Math for formula editing. Designed to be compatible with other major office suites, Apache OpenOffice supports the OpenDocument Format (ODF) and can handle files from Microsoft Office and other formats. Its user-friendly interface and extensive language support make it accessible to a global audience. As a mature and powerful product with a history spanning over two decades, Apache OpenOffice provides a reliable and cost-effective solution for individuals, businesses, and educational institutions seeking a versatile office suite without licensing fees.

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom

Adobe Photoshop Lightroom is a comprehensive photo editing and management application designed for photographers of all skill levels. It offers a suite of tools to import, organize, edit, and share digital images seamlessly across desktop, mobile, and web platforms. Lightroom's non-destructive editing ensures that original photos remain unaltered, preserving image quality while allowing creative experimentation. Key Features and Functionality: - Generative Remove: Quickly eliminate unwanted objects or distractions from photos with a few taps, enhancing image composition effortlessly. - Lens Blur: Apply AI-powered blur effects to create depth and focus, simulating professional lens effects without specialized equipment. - Adaptive Presets: Utilize one-tap presets to enhance specific areas of a photo, such as brightening skies or smoothing skin tones, streamlining the editing process. - Assisted Culling: Leverage AI to intelligently filter and group similar shots, expediting the photo selection process by highlighting the best images. - Cross-Platform Accessibility: Edit and manage photos seamlessly across devices, with cloud storage ensuring that edits and collections are synchronized and accessible anywhere. Primary Value and User Solutions: Lightroom addresses the needs of photographers by providing an intuitive platform that simplifies the photo editing workflow. Its AI-driven features reduce the time spent on manual adjustments, allowing users to focus more on creativity and less on technicalities. The non-destructive editing approach ensures that original images are preserved, offering peace of mind and flexibility. With cloud integration, photographers can access and edit their work from any device, facilitating collaboration and sharing. Overall, Lightroom empowers users to produce professional-quality photos efficiently, enhancing both productivity and creative expression.

Brandfolder

Brandfolder empowers marketers by providing an easy to use, visual platform for organizing and sharing official brand assets.