What is a .DIFF file?
The file extension .DIFF, also known as .PATCH, refers to a Patch File. This type of file is primarily created by a software tool called Mercurial, which is used by developers to manage changes in their projects. A .DIFF file contains a detailed record of the differences between two versions of the same text or source file. Essentially, it lists what has been added, removed, or altered from one version to another.
This capability is crucial for developers who need to update older versions of files to the latest versions without losing any new changes. For example, if a developer has an old version of a file and a new version has been released, the .DIFF file allows them to integrate the changes smoothly and efficiently.
To use a .DIFF file, developers typically employ the "patch" command. This command scans the .DIFF file for a specific line that starts with "diff -". Once it finds this line, it recognizes the start of the patch content and begins applying the changes to the older file to update it to the newer version.
Mercurial, the program associated with .DIFF files, is predominantly written in Python and C. It is the main software used to open and work with these files. Since Mercurial handles the creation and application of .DIFF files, it is an essential tool for developers working on projects where multiple versions of files are being edited and updated regularly.
Verification
Our goal is to help people find the most up-to-date information about file extensions for Windows, Mac, Linux, Android and iOS. We researched over 10,000 file extensions and their respective programs that open those files. If you want to suggest edits or updates about .DIFF file formats, example files, or programs that are compatible. Please contact us.