.M4 File Extension

Macro Processor Library

M4 file written for Unix macro processor m4. M4 files contain macros and text. Macros are expanded when processed by m4. M4 files often used for configuration files. Over 400 file formats can be ope...

General Information

Title M4 File Extension
Extension .m4
Full Form Macro Processor Library
File Type Preprocessor, Macro
Developer GNU Project
MIME Type text/plain

File Function

Primary Function Macro processing
Additional Functions Text replacement, Generation
Features Portable, Extensible

File Characteristics

Quality Text-based
Supports Layers No
Supports Transparency No
Editable Yes

Use Cases

Software Development Yes
Configuration Yes
Build Systems Yes

Security and Practices

Security Risks Code injection
Best Practices Input validation, Code review

Historical/Version Information

Initial Release 1977
Latest Update GNU M4 1.4.18 (2016)

Associated Types

Similar Extensions .in, .ac, .am

Software Compatibility

Software Usage Policy OS Compatibility
GNU M4 Free Cross-platform
Xcode Free macOS
Autoconf Free Cross-platform