File extension .PRF
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Preferences Or Profile Format | N/A | Settings Files |
The PRF file extension is a data file used by multiple software applications, such as Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Exchange Server and ADINFO. It stores user data including a user's personalized settings, login credentials, preferences, mail configuration settings and various account information.
PRF files are saved in a plain text format which can be read with any text editor. Depending on the application that uses the PRF file extension, the contents may vary. For example, Outlook uses PRF files to store account settings while ADINFO uses PRF to store user information. PRF files can also be used to store macro code.
Similar File Extensions
PRF is similar to other popular file extensions like .SPB, .PKG, .CFG, .IPF, and .INI.
Sub-Types of PRF
There are two primary sub-types of the PRF file extension - Personal Settings File (.psf) and Reply Template File (.rtf). Users are able to and customize their default settings in Microsoft Outlook by setting up personal.psf files. Reply template files or reply.rtf files are created and used to create specific responses when responding to emails.
Opening PRF Files
PRF files can be opened in different text editors for manual editing depending on the contents. For example, Outlook personal settings require using Windows Registry MMC Snap-in or 3rd party options like PRF Editor or Poledit utility. However, if you simply want to view or save the data stored in these files, you can open them in any regular text editor such as Notepad for Windows operating systems.
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 .PRF) 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 .PRF 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 .PRF 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 .PRF 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 .PRF extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .PRF file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .PRF 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 .PRF file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .PRF file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .PRF 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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