Bin

Updated: 09/12/2023 by Computer Hope

Bin may refer to any of the following:

Blue trash bin

1. Bin is an abbreviation used for binary.

2. A .BIN file is usually considered to be a binary file. It is used for several purposes as it is associated with many different programs. Trying to view the contents of a .BIN file using a text editor only shows garbage. Determining what application the .BIN file belongs to is difficult as well. Viewing the file code may help if any clue to its origin is found in the ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) portion of the file.

.BIN files can contain information for various functions, including images or sound for an application, a ROM (Read-Only Memory) for an emulator, or CD (Compact Disc) images. Some antivirus programs use them, as does Microsoft Windows, and some printer drivers.

Tip

Use the WinBin2Iso tool from SoftwareOK to convert .BIN files into .ISO files.

3. The /bin directory is found on Linux computers and stores all binary executables. This directory includes all the command line commands and other binary executables.

4. Bin is also an abbreviation sometimes used for the Windows Recycle Bin.

Binary, Binary file, Computer abbreviations, File, Operating system terms, Software terms, TLA