VCF File Extension

What is VCF file?

The VCF format is used for purpose of storing and exchanging contact data of individuals or companies. This format is used by the vCard business cards. VCF files can store personal information, address, phone number or email address. VCF is able to support also some untypical data formats, such as logos, photos, and even audio elements.

Content of VCF files can be browsed within a text editor, because it is stored as text. However, one should remember, that some data may be stored as binary data (e.g.: photos).

Advantages of VCF files

VCF files enable easy import and export of contacts from address book-programs. A contact from a VCF file can be attached to an email, which substantially simplifies sending contact data.

VCF files are typically supported by most contact managing programs and applications. VCF files can be easily generated, for instance – from data stored as a spreadsheet. Data stored in the VCF format can be displayed using the simplest text editor – Notepad.

Structure of VCF file

Structure of a basic vCard file includes:

BEGIN:VCARD
VERSION:2.1
FN:Name;Surname
N:Surname;Name
TEL;CELL:+2-602-602-602
EMAIL;INTERNET:user@example.com
UID:
END:VCARD

Programs which support VCF file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open VCF files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with VCF extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 07/28/2023

How to open file with VCF extension?

Being unable to open files with VCF extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with VCF extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install Microsoft Windows Contacts

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports VCF files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Windows Contacts or different compatible program, such as Eudora, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Outlook Express. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support VCF files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Microsoft Windows Contacts installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Windows Contacts to the latest version

If the problems with opening VCF files still occur even after installing Microsoft Windows Contacts, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Windows Contacts is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of Microsoft Windows Contacts installed, it may not support VCF format. The most recent version of Microsoft Windows Contacts is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Microsoft Windows Contacts to VCF files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate VCF files with latest version of Microsoft Windows Contacts you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the VCF with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Microsoft Windows Contacts is installed, check the Always use this app to open VCF files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected VCF file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Microsoft Windows Contacts and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with VCF extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the VCF for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the VCF file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The VCF may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the VCF file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the VCF file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Ensure the file with VCF extension is complete and error-free

If the VCF file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with VCF extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Microsoft Windows Contacts

If the systems has insufficient resources to open VCF files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with VCard Format file. It may be the case that the VCF files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the VCF file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on VCF file.