How to Open BFC Files? 3 Easy Ways

Windows doesn't support the file type anymore

Windows 11 » How To

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by Kazim Ali Alvi 

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Key notes

  • To open BFC files, use Windows Briefcase or convert the file into a supported format.
  • Keep reading to discover all your options!
how to open bfc

BFC files were created using Microsoft Windows Briefcase but slowly became obsolete. As a result, you may find it difficult to open BFC files.

Microsoft Windows Briefcase helps sync files between different PCs. The BFC file format comprises compressed archives that store the data for all the files synced between the two devices. Let’s find out how you can open the .bfc file extension!

How do I open BFC files?

1. Use Microsoft Briefcase

In case you are still using an older iteration of the OS, say Windows 7, Windows Briefcase will be present. The feature was altogether removed in Windows 10 build 14942. So, if you are on Windows 7 or know someone running the OS, ask them to open the BFC file and share the contents.

Creating a new Briefcase

To open a BFC file on Windows, right-click on the file > select Open with > and choose Briefcase from the list of options.

There was a Registry hack to set up Windows Briefcase on Windows 10 and 11, but it no longer works. Besides, the feature can’t be downloaded from the web since it’s integrated with Windows. If you regularly work with Windows Briefcase, it’s best to continue using Windows 7.

2. View the file online

There are a few websites that allow you to view BFC files online. So, if it’s just one or two .bfc files that need to be worked on, this is the best option.

We recommend you have an effective antivirus solution running when accessing such websites and also scan the downloaded files, if any.

3. Convert the file into a supported format

Another option to open BFC files is to convert them into the WAB format. Again, there are several online converters available, and a quick Google Search will help find one.

Remember, always use the right means to convert the file format. Manually changing the extension, say from .bfc to .wab, will render the file unreadable or the characters illegible.

If you frequently deal with such extensions, we recommend using a universal file opener. These support hundreds of formats and negate the need to install a separate program for each one!

For any queries or to share how you managed to open BFC files, drop a comment below.

More about the topics: file opener, file type

Kazim Ali Alvi

Kazim Ali Alvi Shield

Windows Hardware Expert

Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He's specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem. Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He's also one of our experts in Networking & Security.