File extension .MDF
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol 120% Disc Image File Format | Alcohol Software | Disk Image Files |
The .MDF file extension is associated with disk images of CDs and DVDs. It is mainly used by Alcohol 120% to store exact copies of optical discs, including video DVDs and game CDs, which generally have multiple files stored in a certain layout. MDF files replicate this layout in their entirety.
An MDF file is created by mounting an original disk onto a computer's virtual drive with Alcohol 120%. Once the virtual drive reads the data, Alcohol 120% will save an exact replica of the data from that CD or DVD in an MDF file. The resulting file produces an exact, uncompressed copy of the source files, no matter their size or type.
Technical Details
The MDF format resides on a computer's hard drive as a large binary file. It can only be read by burning it to a blank CD or DVD, using software that understands the language of disk images, such as Fantom CD, or Alcohol 120%, which created it. All information can also be read by programs such as Power ISO, Nero Burning ROM, UltraISO, ISOBuster, and others.
.MDF Compared to Similar File Extensions.
The .MDF file extension stands alongside others like .BIN, .ISO, and .CUE, which are all used to create CD and DVD images. Each of these formats likewise contains the decrypted contents of a CD or DVD, however BIN and CUE files must be accompanied together, with the CUE serving as the container file for all other files within the disk image. ISO files are often compressed to save space, and while they will open with most disk image programs, they may not replicate a true copy as accurately as the other formats.
Programs for WINDOWS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .MDF) 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 .MDF 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 .MDF 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 .MDF 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 .MDF extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .MDF file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .MDF 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 .MDF file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .MDF file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .MDF 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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