What is the difference between FLA and SWF?

FLA is the extension used for the flash file that is being produced. It contains resources like images, sounds, and other variables needed for the final flash file. When compared to the SWF (small web format), the last file may be opened in the more popularly installed flash player which does not have the capability to open FLA files.

The FLA contains various resources to be used in a flash file, and the properties are not converted or adjusted for anything. Any material stored in the FLA file, but is not utilized in the application, does not go over to the SWF during the finalization process. If you create an SWF file from an FLA file, you should not delete the FLA file because you may want to make changes in the SWF file.

FLA and SWF are extensions associated with the software called Flash. FLA is put into use for any extension that a Flash file is creating. FLA holds many important elements, such as pictures and audio, which would be included in the last file. SWF is an abbreviation for Small Web Format. It is the final file that the flash publishes. Another key difference between the two is in regards to the opening in Flash Player. Once a file becomes SWF, it is able to be opened in this player. However, A FLA file is not able to be opened in the flash player.