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How to Open RBF File on Windows

A dedicated file opener is the best choice

3 min. read

Updated onApril 15, 2024

updated onApril 15, 2024

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Key notes

Windows uses the RBF file format to create temporary backups during software installation, allowing the OS to revert things if the installation doesn’t go through. And you can easily open RBF files with a suitable program.

RBF (.rbf) files are usually stored in the following path:C:\Config.Msi

But since these are protected system files, theConfig.Msifolder can’t be viewed or accessed unless the protected system files are set to be visible and you have full folder access. Let’s find out how you can open RBF files.

How do I open an RBF file?

How do I open an RBF file?

1. Use Retrospect Backup for Windows

Once done, Retrospect will automatically be set as the default file association. If not,manually set the default appto quickly open RBF files in the future!

Remember,Retrospect Backup for Windowsis a paid software with a 30-day trial period.

2. Go with a text editor

You can also open RBF files in Windows using built-in text editors like Notepad. But, since it’s not natively supported, the content won’t be displayed in the ideal form. Some of the data may be unreadable or have indecipherable characters.

Still, Notepad remains a viable option for users who don’t prefer installing third-party programs.

These are the two ways you can open RBF files created by the Windows installer. We have also come across another file with the same extension,Robot Brick File (RBF), and it can be viewed inLEGO Mindstorms EV3.

Also, the RBF file is not malware or threat as long as it is, by default, stored in theConfig.Msifolder in theC:drive. However, if it’s in another directory, we recommendscanning the file for threats.

Besides, it’s best to download a universal file opener for users who regularly work with such formats and eliminate the need to install one for individual extensions.

For any queries or to share how you viewed the RBF file, drop a comment below.

More about the topics:file type,Windows Installer

Kazim Ali Alvi

Windows Hardware Expert

Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.

Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.

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Kazim Ali Alvi

Windows Hardware Expert

Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.