VFW File Extension

What is VFW file?

Full format name of files that use VFW extension is Video For Windows. Files with VFW extension may be used by programs distributed for Mac OS, Windows platform. Files with VFW extension are categorized as Video Files files. The Video Files subset comprises 546 various file formats. Users are advised to use QuickTime Player software for managing VFW files, although 2 other programs can also handle this type of file. On the official website of Apple, Inc. developer not only will you find detailed information about theQuickTime Player software, but also about VFW and other supported file formats.

Programs which support VFW file extension

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

How to open file with VFW extension?

Being unable to open files with VFW extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with VFW 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. Download and install QuickTime Player

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening VFW files is that no program that can handle VFW files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install QuickTime Player or one to the listed programs: Windows Media Player. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download QuickTime Player installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Apple, Inc. website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update QuickTime Player to the latest version

You still cannot access VFW files although QuickTime Player 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 VFW files are not compatible with QuickTime Player. The most recent version of QuickTime Player is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Video For Windows files with QuickTime Player

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate VFW files with latest version of QuickTime Player you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the VFW file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the QuickTime Player installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open VFW files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with VFW extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select QuickTime Player and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with VFW extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the VFW 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 VFW file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

Should it happed that the VFW is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the VFW file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. VFW 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 VFW 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. If the VFW file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

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 Video For Windows file.

4. Check whether your system can handle QuickTime Player

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

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Video For Windows files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle VFW files.

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