File extension .TAR
| Full Name | Developer | Category |
|---|---|---|
| Unix Standard Archive Format, Tape Archive | Jean-loup Gailly | Data Files |
The TAR file extension (derived from the word ‘Tape Archive’) is a popular file format used by Consolidated Unix, most versions of Linux, and other distributions. It is used to package multiple files into a single archive, which can then be compressed or uncompressed, usually in the form of a .GZ, .TGZ, or .BZ2 file. TAR files are typically used for transferring large sets of data between networks, and for backing up important data that needs to be preserved over long periods of time.
The most common way to create a TAR file is to use the tar command in the command line, with the arguments ‘-cvf’ followed by the TAR filename. The ‘-cvf’ argument instructs the tar command to create a verbose, compressed file that may be viewed in a basic text editor. Similar to the TAR file format are.TAR.GZ,.TAR.BZ2,.7Z,.RAR, and. ZIP files.
Structure Of TAR Files
The structure of a TAR file includes both header and block information. The header records information such as the path of the original files inside the archive, their creation and modification times, permissions, UID/GID (User ID/Group ID), size of original files, and name of original files. The block information stores information about each file segment and its position within the archive.
Extracting A TAR File
To extract a TAR file, use the tar command followed by ‘-xvf’ arguments and the filename. The ‘-xvf’ argument instructs tar to extract an uncompressed verbose file from the archive specified. All contained elements within the archive are then extracted into their respective directories. TAR files can also be extracted using popular tools like WinZip, 7Zip, and WinRAR.
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 .TAR) 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 .TAR 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 .TAR 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 .TAR 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 .TAR extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .TAR file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .TAR 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 .TAR file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .TAR file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .TAR 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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