File formats for long-term storage

File formats for long-term storage are standardized ways to save digital information so it remains accessible over time. They define how data is organized and encoded, ensuring that files can be opened and read in the future, even as technology evolves. Common formats include PDFs for documents, TIFF or JPEG for images, and MP4 for videos. Choosing the right format helps preserve data integrity, compatibility, and quality, reducing the risk of losing important information as hardware or software changes. Properly saved in widely supported formats, digital files can be reliably stored and retrieved over decades.