BCA / B.Tech 10 min read

File Handling in C++

File Handling in C++:


File handling is an important process used in programs to store, read, and manage data through files. Files are a way to store data in a computer, and file handling allows us to use this data effectively. It is used in various applications, such as data logging, data storage, and report generation. The process includes opening files, reading data, writing data, and closing files. The purpose is to store data permanently and retrieve it as needed.

Types of File Handling:
Text Files: Used to store plain text data. They can be opened and edited in any text editor. Data in text files is stored as ASCII or Unicode. For example, .txt files are text files.
Binary Files: Store data in binary format. They are mostly used in programming and for media files like images, audio, video, etc. These files can only be opened and edited with special programs. For example, .exe, .jpg, and .mp3 files are binary files.

Process of File Handling:
  1. Opening a File: To use a file, it must first be opened. In C++, file streams like `ifstream` (for reading) and `ofstream` (for writing) are used.
  2. Reading Data: Once a file is opened, we can read data from it. To read data from a text file, we can use the `getline()` function or the `>>` operator.
  3. Writing Data: We can use the `<<` operator to write data to a file.
  4. Closing a File: When the work is done, the file should always be closed. This saves resources.

Uses, Advantages, and Disadvantages of File Handling:
Uses: Data storage, data retrieval, report generation, and data transfer between different applications.
Advantages: Data permanence, data management, and support for multiple data types.
Disadvantages: Performance issues, dependency on the file system structure, and security concerns for sensitive information.