What is a PIF File?
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, a PIF 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, the PIF file 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 PIF 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
