I cannot open a BSA file. What should I do? Help!
Virtually anyone has encountered some problems with opening unknown files while working on a computer. It can be very frustrating. Yet such problems, not only with BSA files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening BSA will be resolved!
BSA File Extension
- File type Bethesda Softworks Archive
- File developer Bethesda Softworks
- File category Game Files
-
File popularity rating
-
What is a(n) BSA file?
The BSA (Bethesda Softworks Archive) file format is a proprietary archive file type created by Bethesda Softworks, used to store game content files. BSA files are used mainly in the Elder Scrolls and Fallout series of games. The format supports compression, allowing developers to store a great deal of data in a small file size. BSA archives enable developers to organize their data much like a library, eliminating the need to recreate the same location multiple times.
BSA files can be obtained from Bethesda Softworks website as part of their Creation Kit. BSA archives are limited in size but provide an easy way to backup game content in case of accidental deletion or corruption. They can also be used to create mods for various video games. Additionally, BSA files can be opened using programs other than the official Bethesda Creation Kit.
How to open BSA file?
If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with BSA extension, it is highly probable that no program that supports given files is installed on the users’ system. Below is a list of actions user should pursue in order to resolve most common problems.
Step 1. Download and install application that supports BSA files
After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open BSA files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:
Programs that support BSA files
Step 2. Verify whether BSA files are associated with appropriate software
It is possible that an application that supports BSA files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with BSA files (right-click on the file icon → Properties → General Tab → In submenu "Open with" and click on "Change" button. System will display a list of suggested programs that support BSA files. Choose the application by checking the box "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files". System will store this information in its registry and use it to open BSA files with the selected program.
Changing BSA file association in registry
File association for BSA files can be edited manually by editing appropriate entry in Windows System Registry. However, it is discouraged as it may introduce errors to registry if not done properly and may even damage the system.
Step 3. Check BSA file for other errors
- BSA file was not copied properly from storage medium.
- Antivirus application prevents opening BSA files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected BSA file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
- For BSA files downloaded from the internet it is advised to check if the file has been downloaded completely and is not corrupted. If not, the file should be re-downloaded.
