What is BIN?

BIN (.bin) is a generic file extension for binary files that contain data in a format other than plain text. The actual content and structure vary widely depending on the application. Common uses include CD/DVD disc images (paired with .cue files), firmware updates for routers and devices, compiled game ROMs, BIOS files, and application data.

Unlike text files that contain readable characters, BIN files store raw binary data - sequences of bytes that have meaning only to the specific software designed to read them. Opening a BIN file in a text editor shows gibberish because the data isn't meant for human reading.

Did you know? CD/DVD images in BIN format need an accompanying .CUE file to describe the disc structure!

History

The .bin extension has been used since early computing as a generic indicator of binary data. Different applications adopted it for various purposes over the decades.

Key Milestones

  • 1970s-80s: Early binary file formats
  • 1990s: CD-ROM images use BIN+CUE format
  • 2000s: Firmware updates adopt .bin
  • 2010s: Embedded systems and IoT devices
  • Present: Widely used generic binary format

Key Features

Core Capabilities

  • Raw Binary Data: Unformatted byte sequences
  • Application-Specific: Structure defined by software
  • Compact Storage: No text overhead
  • Disc Images: Exact CD/DVD copies
  • Firmware: Device update packages
  • ROMs: Game cartridge dumps

Common Use Cases

Disc Images

CD/DVD backups with .cue

Firmware

Router/device updates

Game ROMs

Retro gaming emulation

BIOS Files

System firmware

Advantages

  • Efficient storage (no text overhead)
  • Exact disc image reproduction
  • Universal binary container
  • Direct hardware programming
  • Compact firmware packages
  • Fast read/write operations

Disadvantages

  • Not human-readable
  • Requires specific software to open
  • Format varies by application
  • Can't be easily edited
  • No standard structure

Technical Information

Format Specifications

Specification Details
File Extension .bin
MIME Type application/octet-stream
Format Type Generic binary
Structure Application-defined
Common Uses Disc images, firmware, ROMs
Companion Files .cue (disc images)

Common Tools

  • Disc Images: ImgBurn, Daemon Tools
  • Hex Editors: HxD, Hex Fiend
  • Emulators: RetroArch, PCSX2