File - some clarification

[stdgrp]

Greetings,

I was going through the explanation about File definition from http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/F/file.html

It is mentioned that

QUOTE
Almost all information stored in a computer must be in a file.
UNQUOTE

Can any one explain the meaning of "Almost" can we store any information not as a file?

Regards,

[Thermo]

Well databases are another way.

[wh666-666]

mmm thats a mindteaser ... **gerbils start running** .. I would presume something wouldnt fall under a file if it didnt have an indentifier

Arent databases still files btw? Usually stored under a database filename?

[rock]

I agree that a database is just another kind of file. It's stored on disk like anything else. I would say the "almost" comes in because of things like BIOS which are stored on a chip.

If you think about the opposite statement that "all information on a computer is stored in files" your gut you surely tell you that superlative isn't quite right. But I would consider saying 'almost' and then not giving counter examples is poor presentation style when the alternatives aren't completely obvious.

[skoechle]

I think "almost" refers to RAM... Every program has some sort of information in RAM when its running that is never stored long term in a file on the hard drive.

[ua549]

ID's, passwords and encryption keys can be stored on a TPM. software can then use the TPM data to automatically handle logins and access to remote resources. The same applies to SmartCards. Once you use the TPM with a SmartCard or biometric device, you'll wonder how you got along without them.

[ksuohio]

Files are typically related to the OS and how it organizes data that it works with. Anything at a lower level than the OS couple store data on the disk just in blocks.