OFT File Extension

What is OFT file?

OFT is an email template file associated with Microsoft Outlook. OFT templates allow users to create standardized email messages that share the same layout, font type, etc. OFT templates can be further customized to automatically adjust the layout, depending on the recipient of the message (form autofill scripts are also supported).

Creating message templates in Outlook

OFT templates can be created by saving composed message as a template file. Outlook supports two template formats FORM and OFT, where FORM allows for quick data entry to message fields according to preselected rules. Creating a robust template requires a lot of work and good knowledge of Outlook. Formal or business message templates typically use a field autofill scripts that have access to contacts database.

Programs which support OFT file extension

The following listing features OFT-compatible programs. Files with OFT 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: 09/05/2022

How to open file with OFT extension?

Problems with accessing OFT may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with OFT files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Download and install Microsoft Outlook

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports OFT files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Outlook or one of the recommended programs (for example, Microsoft Office, Office 365) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support OFT 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 Microsoft Outlook website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Microsoft Outlook

If the problems with opening OFT files still occur even after installing Microsoft Outlook, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Outlook is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that Microsoft Outlook cannot handle files with OFT may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Microsoft Outlook.

Step 3. Assign Microsoft Outlook to OFT files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate OFT files with latest version of Microsoft Outlook you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the OFT 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
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Microsoft Outlook is installed, check the Always use this app to open OFT files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the OFT file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select Microsoft Outlook and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with OFT extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

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

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the OFT file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the OFT file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the OFT file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

If the OFT 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. When downloading the file with OFT extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

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 Outlook Format Template file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Microsoft Outlook

If the systems has insufficient resources to open OFT files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

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 Outlook Format Template file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle OFT files.

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