BFC File – What is .bfc file and how to open it?

BFC File Format

A BFC file is a Windows Briefcase File, a legacy file format developed by Microsoft for Windows operating systems. It is utilized to store a collection of files and folders in a portable container, allowing users to easily transfer and synchronize data across multiple devices or with remote servers. BFC files are essentially compressed folders that incorporate file-level synchronization capabilities, enabling users to keep their files updated and consistent across different locations.

Usage and Benefits of BFC Files

BFC files were primarily designed for mobile users who frequently transported data between their desktop and portable devices. They offered a convenient solution for maintaining file consistency and version control. These files could be accessed like ordinary folders, allowing users to create, edit, and delete files as needed. However, their synchronization capabilities allowed any changes made on one device to be automatically reflected on all other linked devices, ensuring that users always had the most up-to-date version of their files. Additionally, BFC files provided data compression, minimizing the storage space required for file transfers.

Method 1: Using File Explorer

1. Locate the .BFC file you want to open.
2. Right-click on the file and select “Open with.”
3. Choose “Windows Briefcase.”
4. The BFC file will open in a new File Explorer window.

Method 2: Using the Command Prompt

1. Open the Command Prompt.
2. Navigate to the directory where the .BFC file is located.
3. Type the following command:


start bfcfile.bfc


Replace “bfcfile.bfc” with the actual name of the BFC file.
4. The BFC file will open in a new File Explorer window.

Additional Notes:

• Windows Briefcase is a discontinued feature in Windows 10 and later. However, you can still open BFC files using the methods described above.
• If you encounter any issues opening a BFC file, make sure you have the latest version of Windows installed.
• You can also use third-party software, such as WinZip or 7-Zip, to extract the contents of a BFC file.

BFC File: Windows Briefcase File

The BFC file extension signifies a Windows Briefcase File, a file format developed by Microsoft for its Windows operating systems. Its primary purpose is to synchronize files between multiple computers or devices. When a BFC file is created, it acts as a virtual folder that stores shortcuts to the actual files. These shortcuts point to the original files’ locations, whether on the local hard drive or a network share.

Upon opening a BFC file, the user sees a list of shortcuts representing the files within. Any changes made to these shortcuts, such as adding, deleting, or renaming, are automatically applied to the actual files. This functionality allows users to easily keep their files synchronized across multiple devices without manually transferring them. BFC files are typically used in conjunction with the Windows Briefcase feature, which enables users to create and manage Briefcase files.

Other Extensions