Binääriarkisto

Binääriarkisto, or binary archive, is a file format used for storing collections of files, often including their metadata and directory structure. Unlike text-based archives, binary archives store data in a raw, machine-readable format, which can lead to more efficient storage and faster processing. Common examples of binary archive formats include ZIP, RAR, and 7z. These formats are widely used for distributing software, backing up data, and compressing files for transmission. The structure of a binary archive typically involves a header that describes the archive's contents, followed by the compressed or uncompressed data of the individual files. Algorithms like DEFLATE or LZMA are often employed for compression within these archives, reducing the overall file size. Extracting files from a binary archive requires a corresponding decompression and parsing program that understands the specific format's specifications. The choice of archive format can depend on factors such as compression ratio, speed, and the availability of compatible software.