ALAC File Extension

What is ALAC file?

ALAC filename suffix is mostly used for Apple Lossless Audio Codec Audio Format files. Apple Lossless Audio Codec Audio Format specification was created by Apple. ALAC file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Linux, Mac OS, Windows system platform. ALAC file belongs to the Audio Files category just like 771 other filename extensions listed in our database. iTunes supports ALAC files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 8 other tools may also be used. Software named iTunes was created by Apple, Inc.. In order to find more detailed information on the software and ALAC files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support ALAC file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open ALAC files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. ALAC files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

How to open file with ALAC extension?

Being unable to open files with ALAC extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with ALAC files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install iTunes

Problems with opening and working with ALAC files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with ALAC files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install iTunes or one to the listed programs: QuickTime Player, Windows Media Player, xrecode. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support ALAC files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading iTunes installed is by going to developer’s website (Apple, Inc.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of iTunes

If you already have iTunes installed on your systems and ALAC files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of iTunes installed, it may not support ALAC format. The most recent version of iTunes is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign iTunes to ALAC files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate ALAC files with latest version of iTunes you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the ALAC file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where iTunes is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open ALAC files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with ALAC extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with ALAC extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the ALAC file is complete and free of errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper ALAC file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the ALAC in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the ALAC is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the ALAC file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the ALAC file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic ALAC file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with ALAC extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Apple Lossless Audio Codec Audio Format file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run iTunes

If the systems has insufficient resources to open ALAC files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Apple Lossless Audio Codec Audio Format files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with ALAC files affecting older versions of given software.

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