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What is a PIF File?

Malcolm Tatum
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Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 27,211
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The program information file, normally referred to as a PIF file, is a type of file extension that was developed in the days leading up to the advent of Windows applications. Essentially, this type of file is designed to hold information that will help an MS-DOS application know how to run in a Windows environment. The idea behind the PIF file is that the data will tell the operating system how to run the application while using the least amount of resources necessary. Today, a PIF serves a similar function with any Windows based application as well.

An example of the information contained in the PIF file is the amount of memory that is needed to drive the application that the file extension corresponds with. A path to the executable file that is associated with the file is also designated, so the system does not have to conduct a search in order to launch the program. Generally, the PIF detail will also include a specification of the type of window that should be used to open the application, such as a full screen, or a smaller window size. This is accomplished by designating the number of pixels that are to be used for the display.

While developed originally as a non-Windows application, the value of the PIF file was quickly realized and the protocols were modified by Microsoft to allow PIF files to also function in a Windows environment. The result was a full service application that helped to make the best use of resources on the hard drive, allowing computers to function at a higher rate of efficiency.

Unfortunately, hackers and others who create and distribute viruses sometimes abuse the PIF file. Because of the relative ease of creating a PIF file, it is easy to create an executable file that appears to be innocuous, but in fact is embedded with a virus. The infected file is then sent out to a number of email addresses, in anticipation of someone opening the file, infecting the hard drive, and in turn propagating by using the system to send out infected emails and attachments to everyone listed in the email program address book. The attachments usually contain a virus of some sort that will begin to infect the hard drive when the file is opened. Great care should be taken before opening any attachment that ends with “exe” or “pif”. Even if the file appears to be from a trusted source, make sure the anti-virus software on the hard drive is up to date, and scan the attachment before opening the document.

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Malcolm Tatum
By Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing to become a full-time freelance writer. He has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including EasyTechJunkie, and his work has also been featured in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and newspapers. When not writing, Malcolm enjoys collecting vinyl records, following minor league baseball, and cycling.
Discussion Comments
By anon132482 — On Dec 07, 2010

i have ihjuh.pif and gbwx.pif file in my usb and i can't delete those files, i can't copy more files, and then i can't copy or delete files. the text box will appear and says write protected. I even turned to 0 my write protection, but it is still not working properly. i even tried to reformat my usb but damn the write protection is still active! how to remove that? i think that pif files in my usb are the reason.

By anon130870 — On Nov 30, 2010

A hacker nowadays wouldn't bother with a .pif file essentially because most av with a shell extension would pick the file in question straight away. He would be better off binding/packing/crypting the server side of the remote admin tool he is using.

By anon104205 — On Aug 15, 2010

I have a DOS program called "mtreas". I have been able to enter this program for many years. I cannot do this anymore because the application has been referred to a PIF file. I do not know how to correct this.

By anon30704 — On Apr 23, 2009

My MS-DOS application does not run. It shows error pif file is missing. What should i do?

By anon26285 — On Feb 11, 2009

What if it happens that I accepted the file from messenger, but I dint open it. I just realized it when my computer automatically scanned the whole sys and informed me that the file contained a virus.

However, I'm not sure whether the PIF file is still in my laptop or deleted... I'm afraid that it will effect my hard disk if its not deleted. Even when I full scan using the kapersky, there is a lot of vulnerability detected on the pdf and winamp file. What should I do?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum, a former teleconferencing industry professional, followed his passion for trivia, research, and writing...
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