.DAT File Type
File extension: DAT or .dat
Description: Data
Author of the .dat file extension: Various
Category: Data file
Programs that use the .dat file type: Various
Explanation of .dat file extensions:
The .dat file extension stands for data files. These files can contain just about any type of information including text, graphics, and binary data. DAT files do not have a specific type of structure and are used widely by all types of different programs.
Typical problems associated with the .dat file extension:
One of the most common problems with .dat files is trying to figure out what is in it.
In addition, hidden .dat files named index.dat often infect your system. Index.dat files are indexes that contain the information about which websites you’ve visited and e-mails you have sent and received. These are left behind even after cleaning history folders.
Another common .dat problem occurs when the Windows registry contains invalid instructions or has had references to .dat files removed by spyware or other processes.
Solutions/Recommendations:
If you want to determine what a .dat file contains or which program it contains data for, you can look at the folder that the file is residing in to get an idea of which program the file belongs to. Some programs are available that allow you to open .dat files and peek inside such as EditPad Pro.
Do delete index.dat files, you must perform a search in Windows Explorer with “show hidden files and folders” enabled and “hide protected operating system files” disabled. You can change these settings in the “Folder Options” section of Windows Explorer. Go to the “View” tab and scroll through the “Advanced settings” list.
If your programs can’t find the required .dat files, there’s a chance they could be corrupt, missing, or have lost their file associations. Run a registry cleaner to resolve many common .dat errors such as these.
Associated links:
Manage Index.dat files
EditPad Pro
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