File types refer to the different formats in which data can be stored on a computer. Each file type is identified by its extension, which is the suffix at the end of the file name, such as .txt for text files or .jpg for image files. These extensions help the operating system understand how to open and manage the file. Different file types serve various purposes. For example, .pdf files are commonly used for documents that need to be shared while preserving their formatting, whereas .mp3 files are used for audio. Understanding file types is essential for effective file management and ensuring compatibility across different software applications.