fileheader
nounUK /ˈfaɪlˌhɛdə/
US /ˈfaɪlˌhɛdər/
The first part of a computer file that tells the computer what kind of file it is.
The program reads the fileheader before opening the rest of the document.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A block of data at the start of a file containing information about its structure and contents.
The image viewer checks the fileheader to confirm the picture format.
3. The introductory section of a document or data stream that carries setup information.
The network protocol sends a fileheader before transmitting the payload.
4. A marker at the beginning of a file used to identify its type.
The antivirus tool inspects the fileheader for suspicious patterns.