PAR File Extension

What is PAR file?

PAR file extension is used by Parchive volume files. PAR file contains marked sequence of bytes generated based on the data archive, which allows data recovery in case of loss or data corruption.

PAR file capabilities

Files with PAR extension are used in the process of multiple-volume data archive recovery. If the file archive has damaged or deleted, PAR file can be used to recover the archive.

PAR file applications

PAR files are commonly used on Usenet service as it was designed to be for sharing files on the Usenet. Thanks to Usenet, the format became very popular and is now also used to protect data from unexpected loss or corruption.

Programs which support PAR file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PAR files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with PAR 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: 01/17/2020

How to open file with PAR extension?

Problems with accessing PAR may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with PAR files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with PAR files.

Step 1. Install parchive software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening PAR files is that no program that can handle PAR files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select parchive or one of the recommended programs (for example, UnRarX) 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 parchive website and download the installer.

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

You still cannot access PAR files although parchive is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why PAR files are not compatible with parchive. The latest version of parchive should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign parchive to PAR files

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

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

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

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected PAR file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select parchive and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with PAR extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

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

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the PAR file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the PAR in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the PAR is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. PAR file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic PAR file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with PAR 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 Parchive Index Format file.

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

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

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 Parchive Index Format files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with PAR files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

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