RAT File Extension

What is RAT file?

Full format name of files that use RAT extension is PICS Rating Format. PICS Rating Format format was developed by W3C. RAT files are supported by software applications available for devices running Windows. Files with RAT extension are categorized as Misc Files files. The Misc Files subset comprises 6033 various file formats. Users are advised to use Microsoft Content Advisor software for managing RAT files, although 1 other programs can also handle this type of file.

Programs which support RAT file extension

Programs that can handle RAT files are as follows. Files with RAT 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 RAT extension?

Being unable to open files with RAT extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with RAT 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. Download and install Microsoft Content Advisor

Problems with opening and working with RAT files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with RAT files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Content Advisor or one of the recommended programs (for example, RATS) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Microsoft Content Advisor website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Microsoft Content Advisor

You still cannot access RAT files although Microsoft Content Advisor 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 The reason that Microsoft Content Advisor cannot handle files with RAT may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of Microsoft Content Advisor is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open RAT files to Microsoft Content Advisor

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

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the RAT file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Microsoft Content Advisor is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open RAT files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

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

Step 4. Verify that the RAT is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the RAT file in question. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the RAT 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 RAT file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic RAT file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. 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 RAT 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

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. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Microsoft Content Advisor

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

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

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

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