Explanation:

A data file is a computer file which stores data to be used by a computer application or system, including input and output data. A data file usually does not contain instructions or CODE to be executed (that is, a computer program).

Data files can be stored in two ways:

1. Text files.

2. Binary files.

Text files Edit

A text file (also called ASCII files) stores information in ASCII characters. A text file contains human-readable characters. A user can read the contents of a text file or edit it using a text editor. In text files, each line of text is TERMINATED, (delimited) with a special CHARACTER known as EOL (End of Line) character. In text files some internal translations take place when this EOL character is read or written.[1]

Examples of text files

A text document

Binary files Edit

A binary file is a file that contains information in the same format in which the information is held in memory i.e. in the binary form. In binary file, there is no delimiter for a line. Also no translations occur in binary files. As a result, binary files are faster and easier for a program to read and WRITE than the text files. As long as the file doesn't need to be read or need to be ported to a different type of system, binary files are the best way to STORE program information.[1]

Examples of binary files

A JPEG image