EXErakendusfaili

An EXErakendusfaili, often shortened to EXE file, is a type of file format used by Microsoft Windows for executable programs. The .exe extension signifies that the file contains a program that can be run directly by the operating system. This means it contains machine code and instructions that the computer's processor can understand and execute.

When a user double-clicks on an EXE file, or launches it through another application, Windows loads the program into memory and begins its execution. These files are essential for running almost all software applications on Windows, from simple utilities to complex games and professional software.

The structure of an EXE file includes not only the executable code but also resources like icons, dialog boxes, and other data the program needs. The Portable Executable (PE) format is the standard for EXE files, allowing Windows to load and manage them efficiently.

While EXE files are fundamental to the Windows operating system, they can also be a vector for malware. Malicious actors often disguise viruses, worms, and other harmful software as legitimate EXE files to trick users into running them. Therefore, it is crucial to exercise caution when downloading and running EXE files from untrusted sources. Antivirus software plays a vital role in detecting and preventing the execution of malicious EXE files.