1. RTF File Extension
2. What is a(n) RTF file?
3. How to open RTF file?

3.1 Find and download then install appropriate software
1. 3.1.1 Programs that support RTF files
3.2 Verify whether the RTF file is not infected with malware
3.3 Verify whether the RTF files is complete, that is, was it downloaded properly
3.4 Verify whether RTF files are associated with proper software
3.5 Verify whether the storage medium on which the RTF files is stored is not damaged or corrupted

4. Similar file extensions

RTF File Extension

File type Rich Text Format
File developer N/A
File category Text Files
File popularity rating

What is a(n) RTF file?

The text file with the extension .RTF stores text data saved in a textual manner regarding graphics and other objects and, of course, text and its basic formatting. The format is no longer developed, but many changes have been made to it for many years, so different text editors read it differently.

How to open RTF file?

Step 1. Find and download then install appropriate software

Typically in order to open .RTF files it is sufficient to follow these simple steps: find, download, and install appropriate software. Then, by double-clicking on the file icon, open the file. System should automatically associate RTF file with appropriate software. Below is the list of programs required to open files with RTF extension:

Programs that support RTF files

Windows

MAC OS

Linux

KWord

Android

iOS

Notability for iPad

Step 2. Verify whether the RTF file is not infected with malware

If given file with RTF extension is not infected, it is possible that the antivirus software is blocking access to the file. User should take necessary precautions and follow the steps suggested by the system. After recovering or removing the infected file it is recommended to scan the entire system for viruses. Yo will have to acquire a new, clean version of RTF file.

Hint!

Be advised that you can always consult an IT expert for help. Some problems with RTF files can be hard to solve for less sophisticated users. Also, you can ask for help one of the developers of software that supports files with RTF extension. In order to do so, go to software’s subpage and search for software’s developer website address

Step 3. Verify whether the RTF files is complete, that is, was it downloaded properly

If the RTF file has not been downloaded properly it is not possible for the software to open such file. Check the file size in the location from where you downloaded the file in question. If the size of the original file differs from the size of downloaded RTF file, you will have to download the file again.

Step 4. Verify whether RTF files are associated with proper software

If the system registry has no entry related to default program that should be used to open RTF files, even though given program is installed on the system, then RTF files must be associated with the application in question.

Associating files with applications is performed similarly regardless of the type of system and consists in selecting an application which should be used for opening given type of files. In order to associate RTF files with given application, right-click the file icon and select form the context menu "Open with" option, which will display a list of suggested programs. Select your program from the list. If the application is not on the list, use the "Browse" button and point to the location of the application. Checking "Always use selected application to open this kind of files" option will set selected application as the default application for opening given files.

Step 5. Verify whether the storage medium on which the RTF files is stored is not damaged or corrupted

It is possible that the storage medium on which the file is located is damaged or corrupted. Try scanning the storage medium for errors.

Similar file extensions

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RTF file – What is it? How to open such file? Solutions to problems with RTF files