TMP files are usually temporary files that are used to store some information temporarily while in use
. After the application using the TMP file is closed usually the files are deleted from the computer. In fact, TMP files are deleted only when the purpose of the file is over. However, there are some temporary files that are used for recovery purposes. A known example is MS Word which saves many copies of an unsaved document while it is in the process of creation. This allows the user to recover the information in case of an error or system shutdown. These files are usually stored on the disk rather than permanently on the memory of the system. If the file contains information in plaintext then it may be possible to find out the origin of the file and trace the application that created it. However, if that is not the case then it will not be possible to do. Also, since TMP files are generic, therefore putting a finger on what created them. Therefore, you should be extremely careful while deleting a TMP file and should only do that if you are completely confident about it.
Since these files are either used as backup or recovery files they can be opened by any application that serves that purpose. These applications include MS Word, Norton Antivirus and Nero Audio. Some TMP files contain information that is essential for the running of a program. So if you delete these, it may cause problems for you. So the best thing to do with a TMP file is to store it and delete it in cases of acute need or if you are absolutely sure about the fact that you do not need the file. They prove to be very useful in recovering any kind of information as well.