Non-executable

A 'non-executable' file, or program, is one that cannot be directly run by a computer's operating system. Unlike executable files containing machine code instructions, non-executables store data, resources, or source code intended for use by other programs. This data is parsed or interpreted, not executed. They often require a dedicated application or interpreter to process their contents, translating them into actionable instructions or output. Examples include image files (.jpg, .png), text documents (.txt, .doc), audio files (.mp3, .wav), configuration files (.ini, .cfg), and source code files (.py, .java).

Non-executable meaning with examples

• The designer sent me the .PSD file, but I couldn't open it on its own as it's non-executable. I needed Photoshop to view its contents and edit the images. This meant the program could only be used as a raw dataset for its given application.
• I downloaded the .txt file containing the program's instructions. The operating system could not 'run' this non-executable file. The file needed to be parsed by the program's interpreter to be converted and executed.
• The website's JavaScript files (.js) are non-executable on the server. They require a browser, which interprets and runs the JavaScript code to provide an interactive user experience that can be displayed.
• The database contained a .CSV file with crucial customer information. Being a non-executable, the program would need to be told what actions to use with that dataset, to create a usable program.
• I accidentally tried to open a .config file directly, expecting the program to launch. When it didn't work, I realized it's non-executable, and it just contained settings that the program would use.