An MIF is a text file that contains specific information about the hardware and software being used on a computer. An MIF file consists of one or more groups containing attributes, which describe each component. By default, each MIF file contains the standard component ID group. This group contains the product name, version, serial number, and the time and date of the last installation. The ID number is assigned based on when the component was installed in relation to other components.
Manufacturers can create their own MIFs specific to a component.
Some group attributes include warranty information, support phone numbers, and any errors encountered. This information is then sent to an MIF database. The service layer is memory-resident code that acts as a mediator for the management interface and the component interface and allows management and component software to access MIF files in the MIF database. The service layer is available as an operating system add-on and is a shared resource for all programs. Because the service layer must run all the time, it is designed not to use a lot of memory.