File extension .PFX
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Certificate Format | N/A | System Files |
The PFX (PKCS #12) file extension is a type of binary file that contains a certificate as well as the cryptographic information needed to authenticate and/or encrypt data in transit. A PFX file can be used by a variety of different secure computer networks and applications, such as financial transactions and website authentication.
A PFX file is usually accompanied by two additional files: the PEM, and the KEY. The PEM file contains the encrypted version of the private key and is viewable using any text editor. The KEY file holds the password used to protect the integrity of the private key in order to prevent it from being intercepted. Together, these three files comprise a complete set of authentication credentials.
PFX File Structure
A PFX file is composed of a data structure consisting of an unencrypted header containing certificates, either public or private keys, and an optional digital signature list. The certificate itself also includes a small amount of information about the issuer and/or owner. A single PFX file can contain several different digital certificates for different purposes.
Creating & Viewing PFX Files
Creating a PFX file requires an application like OpenSSL, which provides access to a command line interface for managing digital certificates. The most common way to view the contents of a PFX file is by opening it with a text editor such as Notepad++. Other similar file extensions include .p12, .p7b, and .p7c.
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 .PFX) 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 .PFX 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 .PFX 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 .PFX 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 .PFX extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .PFX file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .PFX 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 .PFX file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .PFX file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .PFX 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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