IFO File Extension

What is IFO file?

IFO files are used to store information describing a DVD disc. The IFO format does not contain any data specifically related to the multimedia image, but it only refers to the video data through correlated files. Data contained within an IFO file indicate:

• movie’s chapters,
• location of subtitles,
• location of sound tracks,
• start screen and other.

Additional information about IFO files

1. Utilising IFO files, a device reading a DVD disc is able to access all the information necessary for correct display of the whole structure around the video data. Therefore, it is necessary that the IFO file is contained on the DVD disc.
2. IFO files usually cooperate with other files, such as VOB, VRO (which contain actual audio-visual data) or BUP files.
3. IFO files can be opened individually with a proper video program. However, it will result in automatic initialising of the DVD with which a given file is associated with. It applies excluding a situation, when within a folder containing an IFO file, there is no video file – in such case, movie will not be displayed after opening an IFO file

Programs which support IFO file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support IFO files. Files with IFO 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: 09/16/2019

How to open file with IFO extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening IFO files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with IFO extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install PowerDVD software

Problems with opening and working with IFO files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with IFO files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select PowerDVD or one of the recommended programs (for example, GOM Player, Corel WinDVD, Nero Multimedia Suite) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit PowerDVD website and download the installer.

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

If the problems with opening IFO files still occur even after installing PowerDVD, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of PowerDVD is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that PowerDVD cannot handle files with IFO may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of PowerDVD is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate DVD-Video Disc Information Format files with PowerDVD

After installing PowerDVD (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open IFO files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the IFO 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
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where PowerDVD is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open IFO files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected IFO file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select PowerDVD and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with IFO extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

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

1. Check the IFO file for viruses or malware

If the IFO is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. IFO file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

Did you receive the IFO file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with IFO extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the DVD-Video Disc Information Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run PowerDVD

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

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

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

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the IFO 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 IFO file.