Computer Concepts - Types of Files

Files in the operating system are of following types −

Ordinary files

Ordinary files help to store information like text, graphics, images, etc. These files are used to store information fed by the user. Examples of ordinary files include a notepad, paint, programming applications, etc.

Directory files

Directory files are nothing but a place/area/location where details of files are stored. It contains details about file names, ownership, file size and time when they are created and last modified.

Device files

Device files are also called as special files. They are created by operating system which act as a mediator between the operating system and hardware like printers, plotters, etc., and are stored under a sub-directory, "/dev".

FIFO files

FIFO files act as an input/output channel between processes. As the name indicates, it maintains order of request and response to files by user or any other device.