File handling is the process of creating, reading, writing, updating, and deleting files on a computer system. It involves managing files stored on a storage device, such as a hard drive or a USB drive, by performing various operations on them. File handling is an essential aspect of programming and is used in various applications to store and retrieve data efficiently.
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Google Gemini AI
May 15
File Handling
File handling in programming refers to the operations and techniques used to manipulate files on a computer system. It involves reading, writing, creating, updating, and deleting files stored on a storage device, such as a hard drive or network server.
Key Concepts in File Handling:
- File: A collection of data stored on a storage device that can be accessed by programs. - File Pointer: An indicator that specifies the current position within a file for reading or writing. - File Modes: Different access modes for files, such as "read-only," "write-only," or "read-write." - File Formats: The way in which data is structured and encoded in a file.
Types of File Handling Operations:
- Opening: Establishing a connection between a program and a file before performing any operations. - Reading: Retrieving data from a file and transferring it to the program's memory. - Writing: Storing data in a file from the program's memory. - Closing: Ending the connection between the program and the file to release resources. - Seeking: Moving the file pointer to a specific location within the file. - Truncating: Reducing the size of a file by removing data from the end.
Benefits of File Handling:
- Data Storage: Files provide a persistent way to store data for later retrieval or processing. - Data Sharing: Files can be shared among different programs or computers for collaboration and access to data. - Data Persistence: Data stored in files can survive program crashes or system reboots, ensuring its availability in the future. - Input and Output: Files can serve as input sources for programs (e.g., reading configuration files) or output destinations (e.g., writing log files). - Data Backup and Recovery: Files allow for the backup of data in case of system failures or accidental deletion.