BZIP2 File Extension

What is BZIP2 file?

BZIP2 is a file extension commonly associated with Bzip2 Compressed Archive files. Bzip2 Compressed Archive specification was created by Bzip. BZIP2 files are supported by software applications available for devices running Linux, Mac OS, Windows. Files with BZIP2 extension are categorized as Compressed Files files. The Compressed Files subset comprises 236 various file formats. WinRAR supports BZIP2 files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 10 other tools may also be used. On the official website of win.rar GmbH developer not only will you find detailed information about theWinRAR software, but also about BZIP2 and other supported file formats.

Programs which support BZIP2 file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support BZIP2 files. Files with BZIP2 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.

How to open file with BZIP2 extension?

Problems with accessing BZIP2 may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with BZIP2 files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install WinRAR software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports BZIP2 files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select WinRAR or one of the recommended programs (for example, PeaZip, 7-Zip, bzip2) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support BZIP2 files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit WinRAR website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update WinRAR to the latest version

You still cannot access BZIP2 files although WinRAR is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that WinRAR cannot handle files with BZIP2 may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of WinRAR should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open BZIP2 files to WinRAR

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate BZIP2 files with latest version of WinRAR you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the BZIP2 file
• 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 WinRAR is installed, check the Always use this app to open BZIP2 files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the BZIP2 file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with BZIP2 extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the BZIP2 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 BZIP2 file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The BZIP2 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 BZIP2 file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the BZIP2 file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with BZIP2 extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the BZIP2 file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with BZIP2 extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Bzip2 Compressed Archive file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run WinRAR

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with BZIP2 extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Bzip2 Compressed Archive files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle BZIP2 files.

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