File extension .WBCAT
Full Name | Developer | Category |
---|---|---|
Microsoft Windows Backup Information Format | Microsoft | Backup Files |
WBCAT ( .wbcat) is a file extension used by Windows Backup software to store index or catalog information about data that was backed up. It is basically a text file, but in XML format, containing metadata associated with the backed-up data. Such metadata can include folder organization, backup date, etc. WBCAT is created and managed by Windows' built-in Backup and Restore utility, which stores an index of the files that have been backed up.
Technical Details
The WBCAT file extension provides understanding to the Windows Backup Client and the Windows Command Line Backup Utility regarding which files should be included or excluded in a backup process. It will list all the files that were backed up. Each item in the catalog will contain useful information, such as full path of the source file, its full path of destination in backup media, its size, time/date stamp of when the file was backed up, and states whether the backed up data is compressed or encrypted. All this metadata are stored in a compressed and encrypted form inside the .wbcat file.
Similar File Extensions
Some related file extensions are: .bkf, .vhdx, .vhd, .wbs, wbi.
Programs for WINDOWS system
After installing the required software, the operating system will usually automatically associate an unknown file type (in this case .WBCAT) 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 .WBCAT 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 .WBCAT 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 .WBCAT 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 .WBCAT extension. Select a different software from our list and install it on your computer. After the software is installed, repeat inspection openings of a .WBCAT file. Sometimes you have to repeat the operation several times.
Other instructions
If none of the programs listed by us to work with the .WBCAT 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 .WBCAT file, or any other file format. In addition, there is a chance that it will be a free program, and its functionality (concerning the .WBCAT file) will be extended to the maximum.
It is also good to check
- if the .WBCAT 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