Header (computing)
In
.It is vital that header composition follows a clear and unambiguous
specification or format, to allow for parsing
.
Examples
- Similar headers are used in HTTP headers.
- In a protocol governing the format of the payload and several other formats. The header's format is specified in the Internet Protocol.
- In data packets sent by magnetic media, typically the header begins with a syncword to allow the receiver to adapt to analog amplitude and speed variations and for frame synchronization.
- In graphics file formats, the header might give information about an image's size, resolution, number of colors, and the like.
- In archive file formats, the file header might serve as a fingerprint or signature to identify the specific file formatand corresponding software utility.
- In some header files.
See also
- Footer
- Protocol overhead
- Trailer (computing), used in computer networking
- Field (computer science)