Data and information in a computer system are organized using a directory structure and stored in files on the storage medium in use. In order for the user to be able to use the directory structure effectively, the computer must be able to find files. A file system is used to organize the data on the medium. A file contains a collection of data and is stored on a permanent storage medium. Data Files Data files contain all the facts, figures, pictures, words, etc.
Data files contain both data and information.
Data files created when a user uses an application will generally contain information. Data files are manipulated by the user and by program files. A program file contains the instructions necessary to tell a computer how to perform a task. Program files contain only instructions, but are necessary for the computer to run or to accomplish a task. Program files are executable and are often called executable files.