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Before explaining what goes into a file definition, it is important that you understand the concept of a LANSA file definition and how this relates to the IBM i IBM i concept of a file definition.

A 'file' is a normal IBM i IBM i database file, in which records can be retrieved, added, changed or deleted.

To create a file, LANSA uses a file definition. In IBM I terms, a file definition contains:

• the The fields that make up the format of the physical file records.
• logical Logical views of the file. (These may contain select/omit criteria.)

LANSA's file definitions include:

• physical Physical files for tables
• logical Logical views.

As well, the LANSA file definition can also contain a number of LANSA file features, such as:

• validation Validation rules
• triggers Triggers (Rules and triggers can be recorded at both field and file level.)
• virtual Virtual fields
• batch Batch control logic
• access Access routes.

For more details about LANSA file definitions refer to the section What is a File and What is a File Definition? in the LANSA for i User Guide.