What Does the.frm File Extension Mean in MySQL?

The .frm file in a MySQL database stores the table metadata for a particular table in the database. A file with the extension.frm is used to store the structure of a table that was created in MySQL. This structure includes the column names, data types, indexes, and any other information that pertains to the table.

Each.frm file, which corresponds to a single table in the MySQL database, may be found in the database directory, which is located just beneath the folder labeled schema (database).

For example, if you have a table called "employees" in the "company" database, the corresponding.frm file will be named "employees.frm" and saved in the folder labeled "company."

The table definition is stored in the.frm file, and it is stored in a binary format that is unique to the version of MySQL and the storage engine that is being used.

It does not include the actual data that is stored in the table; that information is stored elsewhere in other files, and the location of those files is determined by the storage engine (such as InnoDB, MyISAM, etc.).

MySQL is able to support numerous storage engines thanks to the fact that table definition is kept separate from data storage. This separation also gives flexibility for database administration.

If you create a new table in MySQL or modify an existing one, the server will update the.frm file to reflect any changes to the table's structure.
It is essential to keep in mind that MySQL does not promote or support the direct alteration of.frm files in any way, shape, or form. It is recommended that any modifications to table structures be made with SQL commands and MySQL management tools such as the MySQL Command Line Client, MySQL Workbench, and others. If you want to avoid data corruption and other problems, it's recommended to let the MySQL server handle managing these modifications through the use of SQL commands rather than directly modifying.frm files.

How can I access or read a file with the.FRM extension?
There are two primary methods to open or access a file with the extension.FRM:

Managing MySQL Databases with MySQL Workbench MySQL Workbench is a tool that features a graphical user interface (GUI) and can be used to manage MySQL databases. Follow these procedures in MySQL Workbench if you want to open a file with the.FRM extension:

The MySQL Workbench should be opened.
Expansion of the Databases node may be found in the Object Browser.
Select Open from the context menu that appears after you right-click on the database that is home to the.FRM file.
In the dialog box labeled Open File, choose the.FRM file, and then click the Open button.