RC2 File Extension
Visual Studio Resources Format
- File Type rc2
- Developer Microsoft
- Popularity
- Application C++ Builder
- Category Developer Files
- Format Text
What is a RC2 file?
Visual Studio Resources Format, identified by the RC2 extension, is a Developer Files type and includes 1166 files.
With the creation of the Visual Studio Resources Format (RC2), Microsoft introduced file format along with 242 programs built for their use.
RC2 files are supported by Mac OS, Windows and Linux. You can open a RC2 file using one of 2 programs, for example Microsoft Visual Studio and C++ Builder.
Programs that support RC2 files
How to open a RC2 file?
The most common reason why a RC2 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 RC2 files are Microsoft Visual Studio and C++ Builder. To get the latest version of C++ Builder, open the Embarcadero website where a universal installer for all operating systems is available.
Once setup is done, your operating system should assign C++ Builder as the default app for RC2 files.
Make C++ Builder the default RC2 viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Start by right-clicking on your RC2 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 C++ Builder as the application to associate with your RC2 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 RC2 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 C++ Builder. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make it the default program.
How to edit a RC2 file?
To edit RC2 files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify developer files. Online RC2 editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Visual Studio Resources Format.
List of Top RC2 editors 2026
Following these criteria, we have put together a list of recommended RC2 editors.
| RC2 Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Visual Studio | Microsoft | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.2 out of 5 (35 reviews) |
| C++ Builder | Embarcadero | Windows | 4.1 out of 5 (33 reviews) |
Finding answers to RC2 file problems
If you encounter issues with RC2 files, don’t worry—most can be fixed with minor software adjustments. Refer to the troubleshooting tips below.
What are the signs that my RC2 file is damaged?
Corrupted RC2 developer files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Poor performance when editing a file in Microsoft Visual Studio;
- Opening or processing the file in C++ Builder 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 RC2 file;
- Working with the file triggers the display of error messages;
Why does C++ Builder quit or crash unexpectedly?
C++ Builder crashes can be attributed to outdated software. Make sure you have installed the latest updates for Embarcadero 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 RC2 file?
Use a recovery program to open the damaged RC2 file and navigate to the "Repair" menu item. Wait for the recovery process to finish, as it will automatically repair damaged developer files.