3 steps to open file with ARC extension
Usually solving problems with ARC file is simple – just install proper software and open the file. Read the guide and open ARC file now!
ARC File Extension
- File type ARC Lossless Data Compression And Archive Format
- File developer Ivan Zahariev
- File category Compressed Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) ARC file?
ARC is a lossless data compression and archiving format used to store files, directories, and entire computer programs. It was first introduced in 1989 by System Enhancement Associates, Inc. and was named after the company's president, System Enhancement Associates' CEO, "Andy R. Cousins". The ARC format uses several lossless compression algorithms such as Huffman, LZW, and Arithmetic encoding to reduce the size of data.
The ARC format is a versatile format, capable of compressing data of various sizes. It also has the ability to break archives into multiple parts so that they can be decompressed easily. Additionally, ARC supports encryption with passwords for added security when transferring or storing data.
How to open ARC file?
There could be multiple reasons for which the system does not support given file. In the case of ARC extension, it is probable that none of the installed programs support given file type. Therefore, user should undertake the following steps
Step 1: Install a program that supports ARC files
If an application that supports ARC files is installed on user’s system, but is not used to open such files by default, right-click on the file icon and choose "Open with" option from the menu. Next, select the proper application and check the "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" box. The system will store this information in its registry and use the selected program to open files with ARC extension by default.
Hint for Mac OS users
For Mac OS users the procedure is analogous – open the file menu by right-clicking on the ARC file and choose "Information" option and select "Open with program" option. From the submenu select an application and click on "Change all" button.
Step 2: Find and download proper software
Inability to open ARC files may also be related to the lack of any application that supports given file being installed on the system. Should that be the case, user needs to download and install one of the following applications. Once installed, the system will automatically associate newly installed application with ARC files. If this step fails, see step 1.
Programs that support files with ARC extension
Step 3: Check the ARC file for errors
Sometimes, although relatively rarely, steps 1 and 2 might not lead to expected results. There can be several reasons for such situation to occur:
- ARC file has been downloaded from the internet but for some reason it is incomplete. In such case the file should be re-downloaded and opened again.
- Structure of given ARC file could be corrupted and as such the program is not able to open the file
- Storage medium on which the file was stored is damaged
- It is important to ascertain that the icon representing given file is not a shortcut a related ARC file no longer present in the location to which the shortcut points
- If the user account has restricted access privileges it is advised to contact the system administrator or an IT expert
