DB2 File Extension

DB2 file icon

DBASE II Database

  • File Type db2
  • Developer dataBased Intelligence
  • Popularity
    4.8 (34 votes)
  • Application dBASE
  • Category Database Files
  • Format Binary

What is a DB2 file?

DBASE II Database, identified by the DB2 extension, is a Database Files type and includes 266 files.

The DBASE II Database (DB2), created by dataBased Intelligence, is one of file format they developed, and they also built programs to support them.

DB2 file support extends to various operating systems, including Windows, Mac OS and Linux. When working with DB2 files, you can rely on 2 programs, including dBASE and DBEdit.

Programs that support DB2 files

Mac OS logo

Mac OS

Linux logo

Linux

How to open a DB2 file?

If you can’t open a DB2 file, it is usually because the necessary software is missing. To resolve the issue, select the right program from the list for your operating system. Then go to the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it.

When it comes to opening and working with DB2 files, dBASE and DBEdit are the top choices for users. To install the updated version of dBASE, simply go to the dataBased Intelligence site and download the installer compatible with all major platforms.

Once the process is complete, dBASE should take over as the default application for DB2 files.

Set dBASE as the default DB2 program

Changing Default Programs in Windows

  1. Right-click on your DB2 file, then choose the "Open with" option and select "Choose another application" from the available options;
  2. In the pop-up window, select the dBASE application;
  3. Check the "Always use this application" checkbox, and then click "OK" to apply the selected application as the default for opening DB2 files.

Change Default Program on Mac

  1. Right click or Control + left click on the desired DB2 file;
  2. Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
  3. At the bottom of the window, you will find the "Enable" menu. Default, will be set to "Recommended Programs";
  4. Choose "All Programs" in this menu and search for dBASE. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.

Solve problems with DB2 files

Rest assured, any issues with DB2 files can typically be addressed with simple software adjustments. See the tips below for help.

Why does dBASE stop responding or crash intermittently?

dBASE crashes can be caused by outdated software. Keep your dataBased Intelligence products up to date by installing the latest updates.

Restarting your computer will solve many common problems, which is why it’s the first thing you should do before changing any settings related to the software.

What are the best practices for repairing a DB2 file that has gone bad?

Use a data recovery program to open the damaged DB2 file and from the menu choose "Repair" function to start the repair process. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged database files.

What are the warning signs that my DB2 file may be corrupted?

Common indications of damaged DB2 database files are:

  • Error messages appear during the course of working with the file;
  • Editing the archive in dBASE results in slow or unresponsive behavior;
  • Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
  • Unexpected expansion of the total size of the DB2 file;
  • Opening the file in dBASE or other programs causes them to hang or crash;

How to edit a DB2 file?

To edit DB2 files, it is essential to install software that supports not only viewing but also editing the database files. Online DB2 editors provide limited functionality compared to full-featured software for DBASE II Database.

List of Top DB2 editors 2026

Based on the criteria above, here is a selection of DB2 editors you can use.

DB2 Editor SoftwareDeveloperPlatformsOverall Rating
dBASEdataBased IntelligenceWindows4.8 out of 5 (39 reviews)

Convert to and from DB2

If obstacles arise while working with a DB2 file, you may convert it to formats like DBF, DB or other similar types for smoother handling.

Keep in mind that converting a DB2 file may introduce some limitations, but the original format can often be restored.

Convert DB2 to other file formats