PF File Extension
Windows Prefetch Format
- File Type pf
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application Microsoft Windows 8
- Category System Files
What is a PF file?
Windows Prefetch Format, identified by the PF extension, is a System Files type and includes 251 files.
With the creation of the Windows Prefetch Format (PF), Microsoft introduced file format along with 242 programs built for their use.
PF files are supported by Windows. You can create a PF file using one of 5 programs, for example Microsoft Windows 8, Microsoft Windows Vista and Microsoft Windows 10.
File Signature
HEX code: 00 00 00 53 43 43 41. ASCII code: SCCA.
Programs that support PF files
How to open a PF file?
The most common reason why a PF 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 PF files are Microsoft Windows 8, Microsoft Windows Vista and Microsoft Windows 10. To get the latest version of Microsoft Windows 8, open the Microsoft website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.
Once setup is done, your operating system should assign Microsoft Windows 8 as the default app for PF files.
Make Microsoft Windows 8 the default PF viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your PF 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 Microsoft Windows 8 as the application to associate with your PF 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 PF 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 Microsoft Windows 8. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
How to edit a PF file?
To edit PF files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify system files. Online PF editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Windows Prefetch Format.
List of Top PF editors 2026
Following these criteria, we have put together a list of recommended PF editors.
| PF Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Windows 10 | Microsoft | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (47 reviews) |
| Microsoft Windows 8 | Microsoft | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (45 reviews) |
| Microsoft Windows XP Professional | Microsoft | Windows | 4.8 out of 5 (41 review) |
| Microsoft Windows 7 | Microsoft | Windows | 4.3 out of 5 (47 reviews) |
| Microsoft Windows Vista | Microsoft | Windows | 4.2 out of 5 (44 reviews) |
Finding answers to PF file problems
If you encounter issues with PF files, don’t worry—most can be fixed with minor software adjustments. Refer to the troubleshooting tips below.
What are the signs that my PF file is damaged?
Corrupted PF system files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Poor performance when editing a file in Microsoft Windows 8;
- Opening or processing the file in Microsoft Windows 8 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 PF file;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;
Why does Microsoft Windows 8 quit or crash unexpectedly?
Microsoft Windows 8 crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Microsoft 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 PF file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged PF file and navigate to the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged system files.