ACF File Extension

What is ACF file?

It is a data file rather than a media or document file. It is a cache file used by Valve Steam which is the software package for downloading games.
Valve Steam was developed by Valve, and it uses files appended with .acf file extensions. The content stored in the data file includes details retrieved and referenced by the Valve Stream software whenever a user accessed associated features that have been integrated into the program.
The cache file saves information related to the downloaded software. It is also used for original game downloads as well as game updates. Data stored in the files also include the web locations of video game installers.

Programs which support ACF file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open ACF files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with ACF 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: 06/01/2020

How to open file with ACF extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening ACF files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with ACF files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with ACF files.

Step 1. Get the Steam

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports ACF files installed on the system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install Steam. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support ACF files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Steam installed is by going to developer’s website (Valve Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Steam

You still cannot access ACF files although Steam is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. 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 Steam installed, it may not support ACF format. The latest version of Steam should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Steam Application Cache Format files with Steam

If you have the latest version of Steam installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage ACF 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 ACF 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 Steam is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open ACF files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the ACF 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
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with ACF extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the ACF for errors

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

1. Check the ACF file for viruses or malware

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

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the ACF 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. If the ACF file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

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. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Steam

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

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 Steam Application Cache Format files. It may be the case that the ACF files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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