WEBARCHIVE File Extension

What is WEBARCHIVE file?

Files with the WEBARCHIVE extension are files of web pages containing HTML code, images, CSS files and JavaScripts, to which they refer to (the difference between a standard HTML, lies in the fact, that besides the code, it also stores the data it refers to). WEBARCHIVE files are created while saving a complete copy of content of a web page, using the Safari web browser. WEBARCHIVE files can be used both in Windows and Mac OS.

Advantages of WEBARCHIVE format

Due to storing a web site in WEARCHIVE format, it is possible to browse it offline. The requirement is to have the Safari browser.

WEBARCHIVE versus other web browsers

Using such tools like WebArchive Folderizer or WebArchive Extractor, WEBARCHHIVE files can be displayed also in within other website browsers, although it is not possible in every case – it depends on the specific content of a given web site, and unique elements used in its creation.

Programs which support WEBARCHIVE file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support WEBARCHIVE files. Files with WEBARCHIVE 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: 02/05/2024

How to open file with WEBARCHIVE extension?

Being unable to open files with WEBARCHIVE extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with WEBARCHIVE 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 Safari

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports WEBARCHIVE files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select Safari or one of the recommended programs (for example, Cruz, WebArchive Folderizer, WebArchive Extractor) 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 Safari website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update Safari to the latest version

If you already have Safari installed on your systems and WEBARCHIVE 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 Safari installed, it may not support WEBARCHIVE 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 Safari.

Step 3. Set the default application to open WEBARCHIVE files to Safari

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

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the WEBARCHIVE file
• 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 Safari is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open WEBARCHIVE files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected WEBARCHIVE 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 WEBARCHIVE extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the WEBARCHIVE for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the WEBARCHIVE file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

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

Should it happed that the WEBARCHIVE 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. If the WEBARCHIVE file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

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

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

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

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

If the systems has insufficient resources to open WEBARCHIVE 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 Safari Web Archive files. It may be the case that the WEBARCHIVE files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the WEBARCHIVE 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 WEBARCHIVE file.