Source code archives

Source code archives are organized collections of software's original programming files, typically stored in compressed formats like ZIP or TAR. They serve as a complete snapshot of the code, allowing developers to review, modify, or distribute the software later. These archives often include documentation, version history, and related resources to facilitate understanding and collaboration. Think of them as a well-preserved library of all the foundational code needed to build, update, or analyze a software project, ensuring that the detailed instructions behind the program are preserved and accessible.