BAK~ File Extension

What is BAK~ file?

File with a BAK~ extension is an element of group of files constituting a backup copy. The abbreviation stands for AbiWord Auto-Saved Document. It indicates that it was created in the AbiWord Open Source text processor. BAK~ files contain a backup copy of a document which is currently opened within a program. This form of automatic storing enables to restore documents in case of a sudden program failure.

Documents stored automatically have the same name as their equivalents. For instance, while working on a file named my-file.rtf, periodically, a my-file.rtf.bak~ file is being stored. BAK~ files ensure safety of the original file. BAK~ format can operate in Windows, Mac and Linux environments.

Programs which support BAK~ file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with BAK~ files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with BAK~ suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 12/28/2022

How to open file with BAK~ extension?

Problems with accessing BAK~ may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with BAK~ 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. Install AbiWord software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening BAK~ files is that no program that can handle BAK~ files is installed on user’s system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install AbiWord. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading AbiWord installed is by going to developer’s website (The AbiSource Community) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update AbiWord to the latest version

If the problems with opening BAK~ files still occur even after installing AbiWord, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of AbiWord is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why BAK~ files are not compatible with AbiWord. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using AbiWord.

Step 3. Associate AbiWord Auto-Saved Document files with AbiWord

If you have the latest version of AbiWord installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage BAK~ on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the BAK~ file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the AbiWord installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open BAK~ files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the BAK~ file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with BAK~ extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the BAK~ 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 BAK~ file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

If the BAK~ is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the BAK~ file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic BAK~ 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 BAK~ extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle AbiWord

If the systems has insufficient resources to open BAK~ 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 AbiWord Auto-Saved Document files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with BAK~ files affecting older versions of given software.

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