What is a Codec? What does it mean?

A codec is a software for storing or transferring content such as audio or video. Codecs contain some algorithms that we use to compress or encrypt the content. In this way, we can reduce the content to a smaller size so that we can transfer it faster or store it in less space. For example, a video codec contains algorithms used to compress the video file, so the video file needs less space.

We generally divide codecs into two groups: compression codecs and decoding codecs.

Compression codecs contain some algorithms that we use to compress the content so that we can reduce the content to a smaller size. Decoding codecs, on the other hand, contain algorithms that are used to decode stuck content. In this way, we can decompress the compressed content and make it original.

Codecs are for different purposes. For example, a video codec is for compressing the video file. In this way, the video file needs less space. Likewise, an audio codec also compresses the audio file. So the audio file needs less space.

The choice of codecs depends on the type of content and the environment one will use. For example, it is absolutely necessary to codec for a video file to be uploaded to the internet. However, we encounter situations where it is necessary to use a different codec than the current one to export the same video file to a DVD.