What is a batch file?

A batch file contains commands that are used by a computer's operating system. It is called batch file as it bundles multiple data packages into a unified set of commands that are easily accessed by keying the name of the batch file on a command line.

A batch file is commonly formatted as a text file. Batch files are typically created for common command sequences that are often used by a user. For very common commands, they are bundled with most operating systems and are accessible through a command line entry. Batch files used by the Disk Operating System are formatted using the .bat file extension.