1ini

1ini is a lightweight configuration file format designed for compactness and simplicity in software configuration. It aims to provide a minimal, human-readable alternative to more verbose formats while retaining predictable parsing behavior. The format is used by a number of small-footprint applications and embedded systems where resources are constrained.

Syntax and structure: A 1ini document is organized into sections and key-value pairs. Sections are indicated by a line starting with a name in square brackets, for example [network]. Within a section, lines follow the form key = value. Whitespace around keys and values is ignored, and lines beginning with a semicolon or hash are treated as comments. Values are stored as strings; a strict type system may be provided by parsers to interpret certain keys as integers, booleans, or floats.

Features and limitations: 1ini focuses on simplicity and deterministic parsing. It does not support nested objects beyond sections, nor complex data structures. It favors a single-pass parser and straightforward error reporting. Some implementations may offer include directives to compose configurations from multiple files.

Usage and implementations: Reference implementations exist in multiple languages, including C, Python, and Rust. The format is used by applications that require quick edits and easy readability by users, such as desktop utilities and microcontroller firmware configuration. Validation tools can check syntax and required keys.

Origin and reception: 1ini emerged in the early 2020s as an incremental development from existing INI-like formats. It remains a niche choice compared to more widely adopted formats like INI, TOML, or YAML, but is valued for its simplicity in constrained environments. See also INI, TOML, and YAML.