File extension .DBF
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Common Database Format | dBASE | Database Files |
The DBF file extension is commonly used for database files, specifically those created with the dBase IV program from dBASE.com. The files are also used by many other relational database programs, like FoxPro, Visual FoxPro, and Clipper. DBF files consist of data stored in a structured form, usually tabular format, and can be opened with both text editors and database programs such as Microsoft Access. Other related extensions include DB, FPT, DBT, and DBX.
Technical Elements
A DBF file is made up of two parts, the data and the DBF headers. The DBF header contains information about the file such as the number of fields it contains, the field names, and the data types for each particular field. It also contains information about file-specific operations such as sorting and searching. The size of a DBF file can vary greatly depending on the amount of data stored in it. This type of file is used to store data in a series of tables that can be easily searched, updated, or retrieved by a computer program in response to queries made by a user.
Similar Extensions
If the data in a DBF file is to be openable and editable in other programs besides .DBF, then it may need to be converted to a more common format such as .CSV, .XLSX, .JSON, .TXT, or .XML. This process is known as "exporting" the data and requires a database program capable of understanding different file types. For example, Microsoft Access has this capability.
Programs for WINDOWS system
Programs for MAC system
Programs for LINUX system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .DBF) 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 .DBF 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 .DBF 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 .DBF 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 .DBF extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .DBF file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .DBF 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 .DBF file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .DBF file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .DBF 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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