PHAR File Extension

What is PHAR file?

Files with PHAR extension are associated with PHP development environment.

What kind of data can PHAR files contain?

PHAR files store archived PHP application binaries, compressed using bzip2 or gzip. PHAR archives also contain archive checksums.

How can I run PHAR files?

PHAR files can be run using PHP and dedicated package managers. PHAR format used executable code buffering to speed up applications and various other optimization techniques that make this format very popular.

Security concerns regarding PHAR files

Since PHP 5.3.0 support for PHAR is enabled by default. However, automatic PHAR code execution in PHP environment poses some serious system security risks. There are know cases where malicious PHP code was distributed in PHAR files masked as JPEG or TXT files using simple extension replacement. Opening such file may cause the system to become infected with malicious software.

Programs which support PHAR file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PHAR files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with PHAR 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: 10/08/2022

How to open file with PHAR extension?

Being unable to open files with PHAR extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with PHAR 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. Get the PHP

Problems with opening and working with PHAR files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with PHAR files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select PHP or one of the recommended programs (for example, Phar) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit PHP website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update PHP to the latest version

If you already have PHP installed on your systems and PHAR files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of PHP installed, it may not support PHAR format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using PHP.

Step 3. Associate PHP Archive files with PHP

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

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the PHAR file and choose Open with option
• 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 PHP is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open PHAR files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the PHAR file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select PHP and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with PHAR extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the PHAR is not faulty

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper PHAR file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the PHAR file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the PHAR file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the PHAR file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

If you obtained the problematic PHAR 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. It could happen the the download process of file with PHAR extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the PHP Archive file again.

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

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with PHAR extension. In this case close the other applications.

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 PHP Archive files. It may be the case that the PHAR files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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