The .BIN file extension is used for a wide variety of things. One of the recent fads in .BIN file usage has been in creating and burning CD images. But .BIN files are used for much more than using and creating CD images, so don’t be fooled if you see it in use elsewhere.
When should a .BIN File Be Used?
Generally, a .BIN file is used to make exact replicas of a file or combination of files and folders. Technically, the .BIN extension stands for “binary,” a type of numbering system that is used to create the file in question.
In CD burning, .BIN files are commonly used when an exact replica is needed. Burning an image file otherwise would leave out information such as boot information, volume, and system-specific information. When they are used as image files, .BIN files come with a .CUE file. This extra file has extra information so that mounting software knows how to handle the .BIN file in question.
You will generally see .BIN files used in situations where binary is necessary for some operations. Many Cisco routers and switches use the .BIN extension to specify an operating system for the routers and switches to use. You will see this in many hardware applications- such as hobbyist robotics or other small programming jobs.
How to open .BIN File Extensions
The .BIN file extension can be used for countless reasons- and therefore, there is no specific program that is used to open them. If you were to open a .BIN file in Notepad, you would see what looks like a bunch of garbage- but rest assured, this is organized garbage, and tampering with it is strongly not recommended.
For creating and using CD images, .BIN files should be opened or created with the appropriate software. A product by the name of DAEOMON Tools is a nice solution for mounting .BIN images. Countless other image mounting programs are available for free on the internet- just don’t forget the .CUE file- it is necessary for successful operation.
For the sole creation of CD images, specific software is needed. While there are indeed a slew of free options on the internet, some of the most popular include WinISO, PowerISO, UltraEdit, and Nero. The operation is usually fairly simple- finding the right program that suits your needs is usually the hard part.
Final Notes on .BIN File Extensions
As .BIN files can be cryptic in their common state, and can be used as CD image files, there are certain security risks involved. Hackers and crackers can hide malicious code within image files or .BIN files, and then can activate the code remotely- causing destruction and chaos.
Luckily, the advent of security tools has made this security threat unfeasible. Simply apply the right antivirus or antispyware protection policy, and a system should be secure from malicious .BIN code. Lastly, be sure to exercise common sense- never accept .BIN files from someone you don’t trust or don’t know.
