BCD File Extension

What is BCD file?

Full format name of files that use BCD extension is Windows Boot Configuration Data Format. Windows Boot Configuration Data Format specification was created by Microsoft. BCD file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Windows system platform. Files with BCD extension are categorized as System Files files. The System Files subset comprises 323 various file formats. Microsoft Registry Editor supports BCD files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 1 other tools may also be used.

Programs which support BCD file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support BCD files. Files with BCD suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with BCD extension?

Being unable to open files with BCD extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Windows Boot Configuration Data Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Registry Editor software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports BCD files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Registry Editor or one to the listed programs: EasyBCD. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Microsoft Registry Editor website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft Registry Editor and update if needed

You still cannot access BCD files although Microsoft Registry Editor is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of Microsoft Registry Editor installed, it may not support BCD format. The most recent version of Microsoft Registry Editor is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Microsoft Registry Editor to BCD files

If you have the latest version of Microsoft Registry Editor installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage BCD 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

• Clicking the BCD with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft Registry Editor installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open BCD files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the BCD 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
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with BCD extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the BCD is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the BCD file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the BCD file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the BCD is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. 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 BCD 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 BCD 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. When downloading the file with BCD extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

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

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Microsoft Registry Editor

If the systems has insufficient resources to open BCD 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 Windows Boot Configuration Data Format 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 BCD files affecting older versions of given software.

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