What is a PNG file?
Answer:
A PNG (Portable Network Graphics) file is an image file format which
uses lossless compression technology (as opposed to the lossy technology, which purposely diminishes data quality assuming it is not necessary).  The lossless methodology dictates that compression and decompression loses nothing in the transfer, but retains original graphic details.


The PNG format was developed as a step-up from GIF (Graphics Interchange Format) and primarily for Internet graphics management.  PNG formatting requires no patent licensing, which was once a significant hiccup in the GIF format world, since some of the algorithms used in GIF were patented by Unisys and that created some stir on the legal front with GIF formatting.

PNG formatting also addresses some other GIF format deficiencies, including better color management and data compression/decompression integrity. 

The PNG format is not readily suited for animation like the GIF format is; although some next-generation extensions like MNG (Multiple-image Network Graphics) address that, if desired.

Generally speaking, PNG files are smaller than GIF (and some other image files) if properly and effectively optimized; making PNG formatting more attractive with regard to computer resources and storage and transfer demands.

 

 


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