Binary Formats
Binary formats are data representation schemes that encode information using binary digits (bits), typically as sequences of bytes, for efficient storage, transmission, and processing by computers. They are fundamental to computing systems, enabling compact and machine-readable data structures, such as executable files, images, and serialized objects. Unlike text-based formats like JSON or XML, binary formats are not human-readable and require specific parsers or libraries for interpretation.
Developers should learn binary formats when working with performance-critical applications, such as game development, embedded systems, or network protocols, where compact data size and fast parsing are essential. They are also crucial for handling proprietary file types, multimedia processing (e.g., images, audio), and implementing serialization for inter-process communication or data persistence in languages like C++ or Rust. Understanding binary formats helps optimize memory usage and improve I/O efficiency in resource-constrained environments.