File extension .LIB
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Microsoft Linker Input Library Format | N/A | Data Files |
The .LIB file extension is associated with the Microsoft Linker, which works in tandem with the Microsoft C++ Compiler to form part of the Visual Studio suite. The.LIB extension is used to store collective code for a program, organized in such a way that the program can be linked together. Usually the code in this type of file is shared between several programs, so it can be re-used and accessed quickly without having to load each individual source file.
How a.LIB File Works
A .LIB file contains sequences of bytes representing data from a compiled program or object module. It stores information about exported functions and data and their linkages, so that they can be referenced quickly by programs. The completion of the link process is usually indicated by successful compilation. A number of similar file extensions related to library files exist, including .OLB, .DLL, and .OCX.
How to Open a LIB file?
The best method to open a .LIB file is to use its associated software, such as Microsoft Linker, which forms part of the Visual Studio suite together with Microsoft C++ Compiler. You may also be able to access.LIB files using other compiler and development tools depending on where it came from and what type it is.
Programs for WINDOWS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .LIB) 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 .LIB 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 .LIB 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 .LIB 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 .LIB extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .LIB file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .LIB 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 .LIB file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .LIB file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .LIB 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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