File extension .P7C
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
PKCS #7 Certificates Format | N/A | Web Files |
The P7C (PKCS #7 Certificate File) file extension is a secure, encrypted format defined by the Public Key Corporation Signature Standard. It serves to protect digital trust certificates, such as those used in code signing, SSL/TLS encryption, and secure email applications. It commonly includes the private keys which verify the authenticity of certificates and all associated files. The P7C file contains a set of digital certificates and is typically signed by a certificate authority or a third-party key generation service.
P7C files can be identified by their P7C or .P7B extensions. These extensions are used both with single-file certificates (with the private key included) or multiple-file certificates (without the private key). The single-file version is used with all applications which require an exchange of public-private key pairs for authentication, while multiple-file certificates are used when only the public key needs to be exchanged. The multiple-file version can also be encrypted for an added layer of security.
Storing and Exchanging P7C Files
The data in P7C files is encoded in Base 64 format, allowing it to be easily stored, transmitted, and shared. The contents of the file can be viewed in a text editor, however the readable text won’t display properly unless the proper software is used to decode it. It’s important that users select the correct software as other similar file types may not be compatible. These include: DER, .CRT, .CER, .KEY, and .PFX.
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 .P7C) 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 .P7C 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 .P7C 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 .P7C 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 .P7C extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .P7C file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .P7C 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 .P7C file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .P7C file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .P7C 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.
Do you have suggestions for this website?
contact @ fileextension.info Use the Contact Form