With modern computing, you come across various types of files of which you may not even know the existence. It can be a different extension that you have not seen so far or are received by others in such format. Opening these types of files appears to be hazardous, especially when one is not familiar with what application is supposed to launch it, whether they may contain something damaging for the system. Need not be worried; follow this guide to open all types of unknown files safely and efficiently.
1. Check the File Extension
The first thing to do before trying to open an unknown file is to check its extension. The extension is that part of the file name after the last dot, as in `.pdf`, `.docx`, `.exe`. That extension tells which software normally is used for opening that particular file.
– Common File Extensions and Their Programs:
– `.pdf` – Adobe Acrobat Reader, any browser
– `.docx` – Microsoft Word, Google Docs;
– `.mp4` – VLC Media Player, Windows Media Player;
– `.zip` – WinRAR, 7-Zip
– `.jpg`- image viewers, web browsers;
Once you know what extension it is, the application that supports this is found easily. If by chance you do not recognize that extension or cannot find such an application, go further to the next step.
2. Look Up the File Extension
If the file extension is unknown or does not match any of the common formats research it. Search for file extension using search engines. There are plenty of Internet sites that list file types and matching programs needed to open them.
For example, websites like fileinfo.com provide detailed lists of file extensions and their associated programs. By simply entering the extension into the search bar, you’ll receive a list of compatible software.
3. Try to Open with a Universal Program
If you cannot identify the extension or find a specific program for it, attempt to open the file with a universal program. There are several applications that can open a wide range of file types, such as:
Universal File Viewers: File Viewer Plus, Free File Viewer, and many more open a wide array of file types, from image and text files to documents and media. These at least will be able to give you some sort of preview of what the file contains.
Text Editors: If the file is text-based, even if it’s in some esoteric format, try opening it in a plain text editor like Notepad (Windows) or TextEdit (Mac). You may at least be able to see the raw content, even if it’s not formatted all that nicely.
4. Check for Malware
Before attempting to open any file that is unknown, especially with an unusual or unfamiliar extension, ensure the file is safe to open. Files from untrusted sources may contain malware or viruses that can harm your system.
Virus Scanning: Utilize reputable antivirus software for the scanning of the file for any possible threats. Most of the antivirus software provides a facility to right-click on the file and choose “Scan for Viruses” directly from the right-click menu.
Scan online: You can still upload it to online virus scanners such as VirusTotal, that will have this file checked with multiple AV engines.
5. Open the File in Virtual Machine
If you are still unsure if the file is not infected, consider using a virtual machine. A virtual machine is a type of sandbox where you can open files without exposing your host operating system to infection. Programs like VirtualBox or VMware allow running another operating system on your computer. You can open the unknown file there and check whether anything goes wrong.
6. Convert the File into a More Common Format
In case you have identified the type but can’t open it with the software available, probably it is possible to convert it into a more common format. There exist several online free file converters that allow converting a number of file types into more accessible ones.
For example:
Zamzar and CloudConvert will be able to help with converting images, documents, videos, and audio into more accessible formats.
– Audio and Video Files: If you have a type of video or audio file which is unrecognized, try converting them into `.mp4` and `.mp3`, respectively – both well-supported formats.
– Documents: If the file is in some sort of specific format, such as a `.odt`, then it can be changed into a `.pdf` or `.docx`.
7. Ask the sender
If you got the file from someone, and all of the above does not work, do not hesitate to contact the sender and ask what program they used to create or save the file. They may be able to provide you with the exact software you need to open it, or even resend it in a more common format.
Conclusion
Opening an unknown file does not have to be intimidating. Most of the time, it’s quick and safe by examining the file extension, researching the file extension online, using a universal program, and taking assurance that the file is safe. Always practice caution, particularly when it comes to those files that you don’t know or are unsure of the source. And if everything else doesn’t work, there is one easy way out: converting the file into a more common format or inquiring about more information with the sender.
Remember, always back up your important files and use trusted software so that your computer won’t be in danger.
