RAX File Extension

What is RAX file?

Files with the RAX extension belong to the category of audio files.

What do RAX files contain?

Files with the RAX extension contain soundtracks that were purchased on the Real Music Store platform. This platform is used for the paid distribution of sound materials. In files with the RAX extension, information necessary for streaming sound playback in the Real Player application is stored. In addition, RAX files contain DRM data, which is used to protect soundtracks from unauthorized access.

How are RAX files used?

DRM information embedded in the structure of files with the RAX extension is used by algorithms of dedicated software to limit access to audio data for users who have paid for a specific RAX file in the Real Music Store. This fights against the illegal copying of music tracks. However, it is still possible to conveniently convert files with the RAX extension to the MP3 format, which does not support DRM technology.

Programs which support RAX file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support RAX files. Files with RAX suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 04/04/2024

How to open file with RAX extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening RAX files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Real Music Store Audio Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install RealPlayer software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening RAX files is that no program that can handle RAX files is installed on user’s system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install RealPlayer. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support RAX files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading RealPlayer installed is by going to developer’s website (RealNetworks, Inc.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update RealPlayer to the latest version

If the problems with opening RAX files still occur even after installing RealPlayer, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of RealPlayer is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why RAX files are not compatible with RealPlayer. The latest version of RealPlayer should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open RAX files to RealPlayer

If you have the latest version of RealPlayer installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage RAX on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the RAX with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where RealPlayer is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open RAX files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected RAX file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with RAX extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the RAX is not faulty

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 RAX file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

Should it happed that the RAX is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. RAX file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

Did you receive the RAX 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. It could happen the the download process of file with RAX 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 out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Real Music Store Audio Format file.

4. Check whether your system can handle RealPlayer

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support RAX files. Close all running programs and try opening the RAX file.

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Real Music Store Audio Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle RAX files.

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