Codec
Codec
A system that compresses large data, such as video and audio, and restores it back to its original form.
In Simple Terms
A codec is a program that compresses digital data, like video and music, down to a smaller size, then restores it to its original state for playback. Video and other data is too large to send over the internet as is, so it needs to be shrunk first. That's where a codec comes in: it compresses the data down to send it, and the recipient's computer or smartphone uses the same codec to restore the original video and sound.
Behind the Name
The word "codec" comes from combining "coder" (something that encodes) and "decoder" (something that decodes). Compressing and converting data using a specific set of rules is called encoding, and restoring it back so it can be played is called decoding. A codec is a program or mechanism that combines both of these functions into one.
Take a Closer Look!
A codec is a mechanism for compressing and converting digital data, like video and music, so it can be stored and transmitted efficiently, and then restoring it back to its original form.
This mechanism is used all around you, like when you record a video on your phone and save it, or when you watch videos online.
Video data is too large in its raw state, which can eat up storage space or make it hard to send smoothly.
That's why, when recording or saving data, it needs to be shrunk down according to a specific set of rules.
Then, the playback side uses those same rules to restore the original, high-quality video and sound, so it can be displayed and played correctly.
There are several types of codecs, used for different purposes like video or music.
For example, some types can shrink data while preserving image quality, while others compress extremely fast.
If you don't use the same codec when saving (compressing) a video and when playing it back, the video may not open, or the sound may not play.