FASTA File Extension

What is FASTA file?

FASTA file extensions belong to the category of biometric files.

What Do FASTA Files Contain?

Contents of files with the FASTA extension include sequences of genetic data. They can contain information about the structure of DNA, but also about protein structures. The content of files with the FASTA extension is organized in a layout specific to this standard. One of its characteristic features is a header, in which comments and other significant annotations can also be recorded.

What Are FASTA Files Used For?

Files with the FASTA extension can store a large number of sequences, which is why they are often referred to as Fasta databases. All this information is used by specialized programs for genetic analyses. Thanks to the use of files with the FASTA extension, for example, DNA comparative tests can be performed, as well as studies on the evolution of genetic structures.

Programs which support FASTA file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with FASTA files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with FASTA extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 03/01/2024

How to open file with FASTA extension?

Problems with accessing FASTA may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with FASTA extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with FASTA files.

Step 1. Download and install SnapGene

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening FASTA files is that no program that can handle FASTA files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install SnapGene or one to the listed programs: DNA Baser, Geospiza FinchTV, BSEdit. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support FASTA 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 SnapGene website and download the installer.

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

If the problems with opening FASTA files still occur even after installing SnapGene, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software.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

Step 3. Associate FASTA Sequence Format files with SnapGene

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

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the FASTA file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where SnapGene is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open FASTA files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected FASTA file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with FASTA extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the FASTA 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 FASTA file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the FASTA file for viruses or malware

If the FASTA 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 FASTA file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If you obtained the problematic FASTA file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with FASTA 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.

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 SnapGene

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

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with FASTA Sequence Format file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with FASTA files affecting older versions of given software.

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