BLOB File Extension

What is BLOB file?

Steam archive files are saved with .BLOB or .BLB extension. BLOB is typically a large cache file in binary format (Binary Large Object). BLOB files are not encrypted and can be store various data used by applications, typically related to used data and settings or application updates. Sometimes BLOB files become corrupted and can couse Steam not to work properly.

Location and contents of Steam BLOB files

Steam user files in Windows systems are named ClientRegistry.blob and are saved to Steam system folder - C:Program FilesSteam. In Mac OS, BLOB files are typically found under /Users//Library/Application Support/Steam path. Sometimes manually deleting BLOB file while the Steam app is running can be enough to solve problems with such files in some versions of Windows and Mac OS. Steam will create a new ClientRegistry.blob upon restarting that will contain default settings. In case of Appupdatestats.blob files, which store Steam update data, no such problems occur.

Programs which support BLOB file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support BLOB files. Files with BLOB 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: 05/25/2023

How to open file with BLOB extension?

Being unable to open files with BLOB extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Valve Steam Archive files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with BLOB files.

Step 1. Install Steam software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening BLOB files is that no program that can handle BLOB files is installed on user’s system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install Steam. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support BLOB 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 Steam website and download the installer.

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

If the problems with opening BLOB files still occur even after installing Steam, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Steam is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that Steam cannot handle files with BLOB may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Steam should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Valve Steam Archive files with Steam

If you have the latest version of Steam installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage BLOB on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the BLOB file
• 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 Steam is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open BLOB files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

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

Step 4. Verify that the BLOB is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the BLOB file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the BLOB file for viruses or malware

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

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic BLOB 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. If the BLOB file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

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 out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Valve Steam Archive file.

4. Check whether your system can handle Steam

If the systems has insufficient resources to open BLOB 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 Valve Steam Archive files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the BLOB files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the BLOB file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on BLOB file.