PVK File Extension

What is PVK file?

Full format name of files that use PVK extension is Private Key Format. Private Key Format format was developed by Microsoft. PVK file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Linux, Windows system platform. PVK file format, along with 6033 other file formats, belongs to the Misc Files category. The most popular program for handling PVK files is OpenSSL, but users can choose among 2 different programs that support this file format.

Programs which support PVK file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with PVK files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. PVK files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

How to open file with PVK extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening PVK files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with PVK extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the OpenSSL

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports PVK files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select OpenSSL or one of the recommended programs (for example, Pvktool) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download OpenSSL installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update OpenSSL to the latest version

You still cannot access PVK files although OpenSSL 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. This can be one of the causes why PVK files are not compatible with OpenSSL. The latest version of OpenSSL should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign OpenSSL to PVK files

If you have the latest version of OpenSSL installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage PVK 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.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

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

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected PVK 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
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with PVK extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the PVK is not faulty

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

1. The PVK may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the PVK is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the PVK file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the PVK file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with PVK extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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

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

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 Private Key Format file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with PVK files affecting older versions of given software.

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