NFO File Extension

What is NFO file?

NFO file format is used by system information files for pirated software (warez). NFO file stores information about given software, typically the details of said software and group that illegaly distributes the warez.

NFO file as a source of additional information

NFO file is added to the software illegaly distributed as a separate file. Warez software is typically distributed over the internet by using the so called ‘torrents’.

History of NFO files

NFO files were first used by a cracker group called The Humble Guys (THG) n the late 1980s.

Text-based graphics

NFO is a text file that usually contains an image created with ASCII characters that identifies the group that pirated given software. NFO readers can render the text as graphics.

Programs which support NFO file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 4 operating systems that support NFO files. NFO files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 01/06/2022

How to open file with NFO extension?

Problems with accessing NFO may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with NFO extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the GetDiz

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening NFO files is that no program that can handle NFO files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install GetDiz or one to the listed programs: Text editor, PSPad, Windows Notepad. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support NFO files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading GetDiz installed is by going to developer’s website (Outertech) and downloading the software using provided links.

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

If the problems with opening NFO files still occur even after installing GetDiz, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of GetDiz is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that GetDiz cannot handle files with NFO may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of GetDiz is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open NFO files to GetDiz

If you have the latest version of GetDiz installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage NFO on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the NFO file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the GetDiz installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open NFO files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected NFO file open the file menu and choose 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 NFO extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the NFO file is complete and free of errors

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

1. Check the NFO file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the NFO file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the NFO file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. NFO file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If the NFO file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. 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 NFO file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

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 Warez Information Format file.

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

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support NFO files. Close all running programs and try opening the NFO 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 Warez Information Format files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with NFO files affecting older versions of given software.

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