A collection of files bundled into a single file for storage or sharing, often compressed.

The nested tree-like structure of folders within folders on a drive.

Temporary files; programs generate in the background. Can usually be safely deleted.

A file that can be viewed but not edited. Helps protect important data from changes.

Making files accessible to other computers on a network or the internet.

Program files your OS needs to function. Best not to tinker with these.

Encoding data to take up less space. ZIP and RAR are common compressed formats.

Settings that control whether a user can view, edit, or execute a particular file.

A small file that just points to another file, folder, or program. Handy for quick access.

Files configured not to show up in regular file browsers. Usually system files.