An exe file (pronounced as letters EXE) is a computer file that ends with the “.exe” extension, also known as an executable file. When someone clicks on an exe file, a built-in routine automatically executes code that can launch various functions. Exe files are used to install and run programs and routines.
EXE or executable file.
An exe file is just one of several file format types that are recognized by various operating systems. Text files, which are files that do not generate code but simply display text, end in txt. Microsoft Word saves files with the extension doc, short for document. Another common file type is the zipped or compressed file, which uses the zip extension.
The exe file is one of the most useful file types precisely because it runs programs; however, this also makes it potentially harmful. It can be used as a delivery system for viruses or other malicious routines. Outwardly, the infected exe file may seem quite benign. Clicking on it can make it seem like nothing more than a cartoon or simple arcade game launches. However, invisible code may be running in the background, infecting or compromising your computer.
If someone clicks on a malicious exe file, then in the next few hours or days the computer may become unstable. Often, the user does not relate the problem to the cause and attributes it to other factors, such as the need to defragment or replace a drive. Personal information or password keystrokes can be sent to an unknown website without the user’s knowledge, or the machine can delete its own files and crash completely. Any of these scenarios and others can be triggered by simply clicking on a ‘bad’ exe file.
Due to the potential damage, when downloading any exe file, it is a good idea to scan it with a reputable antivirus before clicking on it. To that end, security experts recommend setting browsers so that websites cannot automatically load programs. This gives the surfer the opportunity to control what programs are being passed to his computer.
Exe files are generally not meant to be edited and resizing the exe file will make it inoperable. Since the exe file is usually a program, it is usually protected by copyright laws, depending on the linked license agreement issued by its author. Hacking an exe file is illegal in this case. The exception is public domain software. Public domain software belongs to the public and anyone can legally change it.
Since it is safer to err on the side of caution, the best defense is a good offense. Experts recommend keeping your virus scanners up to date and deleting emails from unknown sources. If you get an exe file from someone you trust, check it out before clicking on it. Even files that appear to come from trusted sources can be maligned by third parties without the knowledge of the source.
