PREFAB file icon

PREFAB File Extension

Unity Prefab Format
  • Developer
    Unity Technologies
  • Category
  • Popularity
    3.6 (3 votes)

What is PREFAB file?

PREFAB is a file extension commonly associated with Unity Prefab Format files. Unity Prefab Format specification was created by Unity Technologies. Files with PREFAB extension may be used by programs distributed for Mac OS, Windows platform. Files with PREFAB extension are categorized as 3D Image Files files. The 3D Image Files subset comprises 622 various file formats. Users are advised to use Unity software for managing PREFAB files, although 1 other programs can also handle this type of file. Unity software was developed by Unity Technologies, and on its official website you may find more information about PREFAB files or the Unity software program.

Programs which support PREFAB file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with PREFAB files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with PREFAB suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Programs that support PREFAB file

Windows Windows
MAC OS MAC OS

How to open file with PREFAB extension?

Problems with accessing PREFAB may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with PREFAB extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Unity software

Install software to open PREFAB file Problems with opening and working with PREFAB files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with PREFAB files being present on your machine. The solution to this problem is very simple. Download Unity and install it on your device. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support PREFAB files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Unity installed is by going to developer’s website (Unity Technologies) and downloading the software using provided links.

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

Update software that support file extension PREFABIf you already have Unity installed on your systems and PREFAB files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why PREFAB files are not compatible with Unity. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Unity.

Step 3. Associate Unity Prefab Format files with Unity

If you have the latest version of Unity installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage PREFAB on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Associate software with PREFAB file on Windows

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 PREFAB file
  • 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 Unity installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open PREFAB files box and clicking OK button.
Associate software with PREFAB file on Mac

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

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

Step 4. Verify that the PREFAB is not faulty

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

Check PREFAB file for viruses
1. Verify that the PREFAB in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the PREFAB is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the PREFAB file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic PREFAB 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 PREFAB 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

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Unity Prefab Format file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle Unity

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

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the PREFAB 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 PREFAB file.

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