BEAM File Extension

What is BEAM file?

Full format name of files that use BEAM extension is Compiled Erlang Format. Compiled Erlang Format format was developed by Ericsson. Files with BEAM extension may be used by programs distributed for Linux, Mac OS, Windows platform. BEAM file belongs to the Executable Files category just like 140 other filename extensions listed in our database. Erlang supports BEAM files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 3 other tools may also be used. Erlang software was developed by Ericsson, and on its official website you may find more information about BEAM files or the Erlang software program.

Programs which support BEAM file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with BEAM files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. BEAM 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 BEAM extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening BEAM files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Compiled Erlang 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 Erlang software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening BEAM files is that no program that can handle BEAM files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Erlang or different compatible program, such as Erjang. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support BEAM files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Erlang website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Erlang and update if needed

If the problems with opening BEAM files still occur even after installing Erlang, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Erlang is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that Erlang cannot handle files with BEAM may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Erlang should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open BEAM files to Erlang

If you have the latest version of Erlang installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage BEAM 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.

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the BEAM file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Erlang is installed, check the Always use this app to open BEAM files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with BEAM extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• 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 BEAM extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

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

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the BEAM file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the BEAM file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the BEAM file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the BEAM file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the BEAM file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. 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 BEAM extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Compiled Erlang Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Erlang

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

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Compiled Erlang Format files. It may be the case that the BEAM files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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