You probably have heard about computer codecs many times. But what IS a codec anyway? Ever wonder what this word really means? For a simple explanation, a codec is a technical term used to describe the compression and decompression of large files. When you download music or videos into your computer, the size of those files can be quite enormous. This is where the codec will interfere, by "shrinking" those files allowing the download to be faster. The codec also allow those files to be playable on your computer. A well known codec would be the Divx Video codec, famous for its ability to compress large files into smaller ones, while preserving hign quality image. The Divx 5 codec, released in 2002, was quite famous for its output, but the release of the Divx 6 codec made things even better with its new features. Many websites will offer free Divx codec downloads, which makes thing even greater. A Divx codec pack installed on your computer is all you need to have enjoyable, and faster downloads.