File extension .COM
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Command Executable Format | Microsoft | Executable Files |
The COM .COM file extension is one of the oldest file extensions in the world of computing still in use today. It was originally an acronym for command, which would display DOS MS-DOS commands when the file was run. Although the file extension is generally found in DOS-based operating systems like Windows 95 or earlier versions, it has been known to exist in other versions too.
The COM format is made up of binary machine code that can only be understood by the processor and helps it to execute tasks. This means that the COM files do not include text like other files of different formats would. Additionally, .EXE, .BAT, and .PIF are direct-execution formats that are similar to a COM file, and are often associated with a common application on the system.
History of COM File Extension
The COM file extension was developed by Microsoft as part of the range of early Unix based applications and utilities called MS-DOS 1.0. It was intended to ensure backward compatibility between DOS programs and these programs were referred to as "command files". They were used to store commands that would be used at startup, such as running virus checkers or disk defragmenting tools.
Platforms Supporting COM Format
Today, COM files are supported by multiple platforms to some degree, including Windows 95/NT, MS-DOS standard and Novell Netware. However, their usage has been largely superseded by executable files such as .EXE, which became native to Windows systems. Even so, many utilities like EDIT and FORMAT still utilise a COM variation as its default loader.
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 .COM) 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 .COM 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 .COM 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 .COM 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 .COM extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .COM file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .COM 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 .COM file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .COM file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .COM 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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