AVI File Extension

What is AVI file?

AVI format is the standard video file format. It is a multimedia container file that holds audio and video data. AVI is very popular file format and widely used to store video data, and for multimedia streaming and transmission purposes. It was introduced by Microsoft in 1992.

AVI file structure

AVI file format is based on RIFF format and uses the same data write method, which divides data into strictly defined parts. First part, designated HDRL, is a file header containing information about the video file – size, number of frames, and compression algorithm parameters. Second part, tagged as MOVI, contains actual audio and video data. Third part, designated IDX1, is optional – it contains information regarding location of the fragmented data in the AVI file.

AVI format compression

AVI format offers a compression function , which is optional. However, the compression method is less efficient than those used in MPEG or MOV formats, and the compressed file is sti l l considerably large. The reason is that the compression method is somewhat limited due to use of DivX and XviD encoding. Non-com p ressed f iles are large in size, but they offer better audio and video quality even after multiple read and write procedures. Also, such files do not require additional codecs.

Programs which support AVI file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with AVI files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. AVI files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 12/25/2019

How to open file with AVI extension?

Being unable to open files with AVI extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with AVI files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with AVI files.

Step 1. Get the Windows Media Player

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports AVI files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Windows Media Player or one to the listed programs: RealPlayer, TotalMedia Theatre, PowerDirector. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Windows Media Player website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update Windows Media Player to the latest version

If you already have Windows Media Player installed on your systems and AVI 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. This can be one of the causes why AVI files are not compatible with Windows Media Player. The most recent version of Windows Media Player is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Windows Media Player to AVI files

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

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the AVI 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 Windows Media Player is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open AVI files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the AVI file and 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 AVI extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the AVI for 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 AVI file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The AVI may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

Should it happed that the AVI is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the AVI file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. AVI file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with AVI extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic AVI file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with AVI 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

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Audio Video Interleave Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Windows Media Player

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

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Audio Video Interleave Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle AVI files.

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