Flash Tip: Flash vs. Flash Player - What's the Difference?

When referring to "Flash", sometimes it can be a little unclear what we're referring to, as often it seems that all things Flash are covered under that label when in truth, there are two different primary software applications that come into play: the actual Macromedia Flash software used by the developer to create Flash movies, and then the Flash player used by the end-user to play those movies.

So what's the difference, really?
It's simple--Macromedia Flash itself is a software application that you install on your computer in order to create and edit Flash/Shockwave files. It's standalone and can work on its own. The Flash player, however, is a browser plugin that can either act as a standalone or with your default browser in order to play the published end results from the Flash software. The main difference is that Macromedia Flash can create and edit, while the Flash player can only view/playback.

Do they use different file extensions?

You bet. An editable Macromedia Flash file has an FLA extension, while a playable Flash movie has an SWF extension. (This, of course, is referring to PCs....as file extension on a Mac are generally optional.)

Can I edit both?

No. The FLA and SWF files don't contain the same data; the FLA contains all of the working data, while an SWF only contains the vector, image, audio, and ActionScripting data required to play the movie and display any interactive controls.

Do my viewers need to have the Flash software?

Nope; all they need to view the results of your hard labor is a compatible version of the Flash player, which can be downloaded at Macromedia.com.