ARFF File Extension
Weka Attribute-relation Format
- File Type arff
- Developer University of Waikato
- Popularity
- Application Weka
- Category Text Files
- Format Text
What is a ARFF file?
Weka Attribute-relation Format, identified by the ARFF extension, is a Text Files type and includes 315 files.
With the creation of the Weka Attribute-relation Format (ARFF), UW introduced file format along with programs built for their use.
ARFF files are supported by Windows. You can open a ARFF file using one of 2 programs, for example Weka and Excel to Arff Converter.
How to open a ARFF file?
The most common reason why a ARFF file cannot be opened is the absence of required software. To fix this, select a compatible program from the list. Then visit the official developer website via the provided link, download the program, and install it on your system.
The most popular programs for working with ARFF files are Weka and Excel to Arff Converter. To get the latest version of Weka, open the UW website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.
Once setup is done, your operating system should assign Weka as the default app for ARFF files.
Make Weka the default ARFF viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your ARFF file and selecting the "Open With" option. From there, click "Choose another app" to continue;
- Inside the popup window, scroll through the list of applications and specifically choose Weka as the application to associate with your ARFF file;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK".
Change the default app to open files on Mac
- Right click or use Control + Left Click on the desired ARFF file to access a dropdown menu of actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Scroll down to the bottom of the window, where you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, "Recommended Programs" will be selected;
- In this menu, choose "All Programs" and navigate to Weka. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
Convert to and from ARFF
If a ARFF file is difficult to handle, you might try converting it to formats such as CSV or similar, which may be easier to work with.
Please note that after converting a ARFF file, some functionality may differ from the original. However, in many cases, it can be converted back to its original format.
Convert ARFF to other file formats
Converting Files to ARFF Format
Finding answers to ARFF file problems
If you encounter issues with ARFF files, don’t worry—most can be fixed with minor software adjustments. Refer to the troubleshooting tips below.
What are the signs that my ARFF file is damaged?
Corrupted ARFF text files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Poor performance when editing a file in Weka;
- Opening or processing the file in Weka or other programs causes instability or crashes in the program;
- The file shows errors when trying to open it or does not open completely;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the ARFF file;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;
Why does Weka quit or crash unexpectedly?
Weka crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for UW products.
A computer restart is often the key to solving numerous common problems. That’s why, it is recommended to restart the computer before making any changes to the software settings.
What methods can be used to repair a damaged ARFF file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged ARFF file and navigate to the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged text files.
How to edit a ARFF file?
To edit ARFF files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify text files. Online ARFF editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Weka Attribute-relation Format.
List of Top ARFF editors 2026
Following these criteria, we have put together a list of recommended ARFF editors.
| ARFF Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weka | UW | Windows | 4.3 out of 5 (43 reviews) |