Refers to
data compression techniques in which no
data is lost. The
PKZIP compression technology is an example of lossless compression. For most types of data, lossless compression techniques can reduce the space needed by only about 50%. For greater compression, one must use a
lossy compression technique. Note, however, that only certain types of data — graphics, audio, and video — can tolerate lossy compression. You must use a lossless compression technique when compressing data and programs.