PNG

PNG stands for Portable Network Graphics. It is a raster graphics file format that supports lossless data compression. Developed as an improved, non-patented replacement for the GIF format, PNG is widely used for web graphics due to its ability to handle transparency and maintain high image quality without compression artifacts.

Key Features of PNG:

• Lossless Compression: Preserves image quality without losing data.
• Transparency Support: Allows for alpha channel transparency (variable opacity), making it ideal for web use and overlays.
• No Animation Support: Unlike GIF, standard PNG does not support animation (though APNG, an extension, does).
• Wide Compatibility: Supported by all major web browsers and image editing software.

Common Uses:

• Web graphics with transparent backgrounds (e.g., logos, icons)
• Screenshots
• Digital artwork requiring high-quality preservation

In summary, PNG is a versatile and high-quality image format best suited for images that require transparency and sharp detail without file degradation.