GDS files, short for Graphic Data System files, are a standard file format used in the semiconductor industry to store and exchange layout designs of integrated circuits (ICs). These files contain detailed geometric representations of circuit patterns, layers, and structures, serving as digital blueprints for manufacturing chips. GDS files enable designers and fabrication facilities to share precise information about the physical layout of electronic components. They play a critical role in the design, verification, and production processes of microchips, ensuring that the final product matches the intended design specifications. Security of GDS files is crucial, as unauthorized access or tampering could compromise intellectual property and device integrity.