Book excerpt: This report comprises a selective survey of the present knowledge of the effects of occluded gases and strains on the magnetic properties of Permalloy films, particularlly those which have significance for computer switching applications. Other possible techniques for accomplishing future computer switching functions and magnetic film properties are reviewed. Bulk properties are described and compared with corresponding thin film properties. The magnetic properties of epitaxial Permalloy, epitaxial nickel, epitaxial iron, polycrystalline nickel, and polycrystalline iron films are discussed. The effects of various occluded gases on magnetic film properties are summarized. Stresses present in evaporated films and their significance in determining the magnetic properties of thin films are considered. A selected bibliography of 548 references is included. (Author).