ARFF File Extension

What is ARFF file?

ARFF filename suffix is mostly used for Weka Attribute-relation Format files. University of Waikato defined the Weka Attribute-relation Format format standard. ARFF file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Linux, Mac OS, Windows system platform. Files with ARFF extension are categorized as Data Files files. The Data Files subset comprises 1326 various file formats. Users are advised to use Weka software for managing ARFF files, although 5 other programs can also handle this type of file. Weka software was developed by University of Waikato, and on its official website you may find more information about ARFF files or the Weka software program.

Programs which support ARFF file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open ARFF files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with ARFF suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with ARFF extension?

Being unable to open files with ARFF extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with ARFF files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Weka

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening ARFF files is that no program that can handle ARFF files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Weka or one of the recommended programs (for example, Text editor) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download Weka installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit University of Waikato website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Weka to the latest version

You still cannot access ARFF files although Weka is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of Weka installed, it may not support ARFF format. The most recent version of Weka is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open ARFF files to Weka

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate ARFF files with latest version of Weka 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.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the ARFF file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Weka is installed, check the Always use this app to open ARFF files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected ARFF file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with ARFF extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the ARFF for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper ARFF file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the ARFF in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the ARFF is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the ARFF file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the ARFF file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the ARFF file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with ARFF extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system 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 Weka

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

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Weka Attribute-relation Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the ARFF files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

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