PF File Extension

What is PF file?

File with PF extension is a program shortcut file that contains resources which allow given program too boot faster. PF files are generated by Windows system and stored in Prefetch directory by default. PF files are created automatically and may be used by both Windows services and applications opened by the user.

What is Prefetch folder used for?

PF shortcut files significantly speed-up loading process of applications for which they are created. Prefetch folder along with resources inside it are therefore a part of Windows system optimization technology. Windows overwrites the oldest PF files methodically in order to free space in the folder for resources related to recently used applications.

Can a delete PF files?

Performing tasks in Windows environment will result in Prefetch folder growing in size. The folder can get as large as hundred of megabytes. Large Prefetch folder is not a sign of improperly configured system – quite the contrary. It means that the system is optimized in regard to application loading times. PF files can be deleted from within Windows, but it is not advised to do so as it will slow down the system.

Modifying the Prefetch feature

Prefetch function configuration can be modified by editing registry settings. Also, by editing /prefetch attribute values for given application users can customize its prefetch settings or enable/disable prefetch feature for given application.

Programs which support PF file extension

Programs that can handle PF files are as follows. Files with PF 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: 06/01/2023

How to open file with PF extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening PF files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with PF extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with PF files.

Step 1. Get the Microsoft Windows 8

Problems with opening and working with PF files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with PF files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Windows 8 or one of the recommended programs (for example, Microsoft Windows Vista, Microsoft Windows 7, Microsoft Windows XP Professional) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Microsoft Windows 8 installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Microsoft Windows 8

If you already have Microsoft Windows 8 installed on your systems and PF 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. If you have an older version of Microsoft Windows 8 installed, it may not support PF format. The most recent version of Microsoft Windows 8 is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Microsoft Windows 8 to PF files

After installing Microsoft Windows 8 (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PF files. 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

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the PF file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Microsoft Windows 8 is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open PF files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected PF file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• 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 PF extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the PF is not faulty

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

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

Should it happed that the PF is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the PF file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the PF file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the PF file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the PF file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Microsoft Windows 8

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

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Windows Prefetch Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle PF files.

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