What is a compressed file typically used for?

A compressed file is primarily used to reduce the amount of space taken up on storage media. Compression techniques decrease the size of data files, making it easier to store and manage large amounts of information without requiring excessive storage capacity. This is especially beneficial in contexts where storage resources are limited or where transferring files over the internet needs to be efficient.

While some compression methods can maintain the integrity of the data (commonly referred to as lossless compression), the main goal of creating a compressed file is to optimize storage and facilitate easier sharing or transfer of files. Additionally, compressed files can also help improve speed when uploading or downloading files due to their reduced size.