File extension .BAK
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Backup Plus Backup Format | N/A | Backup Files |
BAK is .BAK file extension, which stands for Backup File. It is a backup copy of the original file that is usually created automatically by various programs. For example, Microsoft Word creates back up copies of documents with the.BAK extension. These files are used as temporary backups if the original file becomes damaged, corrupted, or lost.
Technical Details
Backing up data is essential because it ensures that important files can be recovered in case of a computer failure or data loss. BAK files may contain any type of data, including documents, images and even executable programs. Usually, backups are not intended for direct use, but they can be opened in the original program (the one used to create it) and restored. Other related file extensions include .BKP, .TMP, .DAT, .BCK and .QBB.
Utilizing the BAK File Extension
To restore an older version of a file, users must locate the BAK file and rename it either to the original name or to a new one (for example, by changing the.BAK extension to the correct file extension). Then the renamed file must be opened in an appropriate program. Depending on the type of data stored in the BAK file, some users might require specialized software to open and extract its content.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for MAC system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .BAK) with the new application. If this does not happen, we can help the system a bit by selecting the software for it, which it should always use to open files with the .BAK extension.
When choosing the software we can select the system to use this software every time.
Remember!
Using it for the first time it is good to check whether the .BAK file opened in the application can be read by us and opens in a way that allows us to use it. If everything is in order, select this option the next time you open a file with the .BAK extension. However, if the file has not opened correctly, we have to look for a different software, with which we can open files with the .BAK extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .BAK file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .BAK file has not meet your expectations, you can try searching other websites. But remember to avoid downloading programs "that can open any file". These applications not only have very limited functionality, but may also expose you to expense tens of dollars when purchasing a license.
In the vast majority of cases you will find the program dedicated to support the .BAK file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .BAK file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .BAK file has no errors
- or if it has been copied (or downloaded by the browser) thoroughly
Author’s guidelines

Mr B. Adam
Author of the guidelines / Founder of FileExtension.info
New technologies enthusiast, helping to solve problems with the files.
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