BZ2 File Extension

What is BZ2 file?

BZ2 is an archive format associated with bzip2 compression utility.

What kind of data BZ2 files contain?

BZ2 archives store data compressed using one of the two lossless compression algorithms:

• Burrows-Wheeler,
• Run-Length (RLE).

BZ2 file are typically found on Unix-like environments. The format is used for distributing software on such platforms.

Does Windows support BZ2 files?

BZ2 format is is supported by WinRAR tool, which also allows conversion of BZ2 files to RAR. Bzip2 tools has also a Windows version and is available as open-source. BZ2 files can be used for creating backup copies or various data, such as picture collections or ebook libraries.

Programs which support BZ2 file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support BZ2 files. BZ2 files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 06/25/2022

How to open file with BZ2 extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening BZ2 files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with BZ2 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 BZ2 files.

Step 1. Get the WinZip

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening BZ2 files is that no program that can handle BZ2 files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select WinZip or one of the recommended programs (for example, PeaZip, 7-Zip, WinRAR) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. 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 WinZip website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update WinZip to the latest version

If you already have WinZip installed on your systems and BZ2 files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why BZ2 files are not compatible with WinZip. The most recent version of WinZip is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign WinZip to BZ2 files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate BZ2 files with latest version of WinZip you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Clicking the BZ2 with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• 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 WinZip installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open BZ2 files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with BZ2 extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select WinZip and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with BZ2 extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the BZ2 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 BZ2 file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the BZ2 in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the BZ2 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. BZ2 file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with BZ2 extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the BZ2 file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. 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. If the BZ2 file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support BZ2 files. Close all running programs and try opening the BZ2 file.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Bzip2 Compressed Format files. It may be the case that the BZ2 files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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