MOBILECONFIG File Extension

What is MOBILECONFIG file?

MOBILECONFIG is a configuration file for Apple systems – iOS, macOS, watchOS and tvOS. MOBILECONFIG file store s various information regarding device settings and configuration. It contains such information as password policies, device access permissions, as well as VPN, email, and calendar settings. The file contains therefore most information about network settings.

MOBILECONFIG file sharing

MOBILECONFIG files are typically hosted on a remote profile service, which purpose is to communicate with device to configure and register it. MOBILECONFIG files can be digitally signed to ensure secure data transport.

MOBILECONFIG usage

During the time when MOBILECONFIG files were more popular, they were used for implementing and managing configurations on multiple devices. Those file very commonly used by enterprises and public institutions. Presently, this format is considered obsolete and newest Apple systems no longer support it. MOBILECONFIG can still be encountered in older versions of operating systems or legacy software.

Programs which support MOBILECONFIG file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open MOBILECONFIG files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with MOBILECONFIG 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: 05/07/2023

How to open file with MOBILECONFIG extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening MOBILECONFIG files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with MOBILECONFIG files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install iPhone Configuration Utility

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening MOBILECONFIG files is that no program that can handle MOBILECONFIG files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select iPhone Configuration Utility or one of the recommended programs (for example, iPhone Configuration Utility OS X, Apple iOS) 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. The safest method of downloading iPhone Configuration Utility installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update iPhone Configuration Utility to the latest version

If you already have iPhone Configuration Utility installed on your systems and MOBILECONFIG files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why MOBILECONFIG files are not compatible with iPhone Configuration Utility. The most recent version of iPhone Configuration Utility is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Apple Mobile Configuration Format files with iPhone Configuration Utility

After installing iPhone Configuration Utility (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open MOBILECONFIG files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the MOBILECONFIG file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where iPhone Configuration Utility is installed, check the Always use this app to open MOBILECONFIG files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the MOBILECONFIG file and select 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
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with MOBILECONFIG extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the MOBILECONFIG is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the MOBILECONFIG file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the MOBILECONFIG file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the MOBILECONFIG file hinders attempts to open it. 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 MOBILECONFIG file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the MOBILECONFIG file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the MOBILECONFIG 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. When downloading the file with MOBILECONFIG extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Apple Mobile Configuration Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open iPhone Configuration Utility

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

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 Apple Mobile Configuration Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the MOBILECONFIG files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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