3.5.2+Standard+Filetypes

=**__Standard Formats for Storing Documents and Files__**=


 * Standard formats are needed because it enables the transfer of files between computers and allow these files to be read on other computers, Operating Systems or with different software
 * There are different types of standard files that were created for different purposes but they are all supported by most of the software used to access or modify these.
 * Eg. a .jpg file can be opened by all programs that are there used to either display or edit the files (Photoshop, GIMP)
 * Eg. .mp3 files can be opened by every music player (iTunes, Songbird)
 * This is important towards the Need for Speed in Data Transmission since there are some file formats that are smaller than others that may will transfer faster than other formats since there is no unlimited bandwidth available.
 * It also enables easier communication inside or between networks since in a good network all nodes can access information (see 3.4.9 for more information)

**Possible Porblems**
There are often many different file formats available for storing the same data. Choosing a suitable file format for data preservation and sharing is more important and more subtle than it might seem. Different formats have advantages or disadvantages, depending on their purpose.

Last modified by: Daniel Gillo Last modified: 17th March 2011

Sources
 * Jones, Richard. __Computer Science Java Enabled__. Victoria: IBID Press, 2004.