Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The original file refers to the unaltered version or initial representation of digital data. It contains all the information intended for storage, processing, or transmission.
Related terms
Data Integrity: Ensuring that data remains accurate and uncorrupted throughout its lifecycle, including during storage, transfer, and processing.
File Format: Specifies how data is organized and stored within a computer file. Different formats are designed for different purposes and may have varying levels of compatibility across software applications.