NSF File Extension

What is NSF file?

An .NSF file is a database file that stores data in the Notes Storage Facility (NSF) format. The NSF file is used to store various types of data in the form of notes, specifically, to store the mail and calendar data created by the IBM Lotus business software. The NSF file contains meta data information, user data, and design related information. Generally, the NSF file is stored on the Domino server or on the Lotus Notes clients, and the NSF file can be accessed in offline mode.

Programs which support NSF file extension

The following listing features NSF-compatible programs. Files with NSF 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: 04/02/2020

How to open file with NSF extension?

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

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening NSF files is that no program that can handle NSF files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Lotus Notes or different compatible program, such as Lotus Notes Recovery. 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 Lotus Notes website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Lotus Notes and update if needed

If the problems with opening NSF files still occur even after installing Lotus Notes, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Lotus Notes is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of Lotus Notes installed, it may not support NSF format. The most recent version of Lotus Notes is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open NSF files to Lotus Notes

If you have the latest version of Lotus Notes installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage NSF on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the NSF file
• 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 Lotus Notes is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open NSF files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the NSF file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with NSF extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

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

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the NSF file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The NSF may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the NSF is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the NSF file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the NSF file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If you obtained the problematic NSF file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with NSF extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

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 Lotus Notes Database file.

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

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

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Lotus Notes Database files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with NSF files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the NSF 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 NSF file.