A(n) contains the instructions your computer or device needs to run programs and apps.

Executable file (.exe, .APK files)

Explanation:

In computing, an executable file unlike a data file is a file that will run a program whenever it is opened by double clicking or taping the icon  on a mobile. The actions or tasks an executable file carries out are encoded as instructions in the file. These instructions are interpreted and executed whenever a user runs the file, for example when a user opens corel draw it will launch the application.

You may note that while most executable files have (.exe) extension there are also other file extentions  (eg .APK) to files that are executable. It is also important to be aware that executable files pose a lot of security risk expecially when they are from unknown sources.