How and what to open the file * .pak? Description of the format of * .pak files

Having trouble opening an unknown file? In this article, we'll look at how to open the * .pak file.

Description of the format

PAK is an abbreviation of the Package.Files with the extension * .pak are resource packages, containers that contain a lot of compatible and incompatible file formats. Represented in the form of large binary files. They belong to the category of compressed files - in this sense they are similar to archives (* .zip, * .rar).

Initially, the format was used in games. Later it was used in other software systems, for example, for organizing web forums (a container of "emoticons").

The answer to the question about how to open the file *.pak, directly depends on what types of files the container contains. Therefore it is important to know their origin. Next, consider the best ways and programs for opening * .pak files.

WinRar

Contrary to popular belief, to open * .pak usual WinRar `it does not turn out. Need a distributor, either specifically for this format, or supporting a large number of formats.

PeaZip

PeaZip before WinRar has at least three advantages:

• this is a free program;
• it is on both Windows and Linux;
• it supports the format in question.

Below is an instruction how to open a * .pak file with PeaZip:

• download the program from the official site (do not use third-party services to not download the virus along with the program);
• Install the program in the usual way (two clicks on the installation * .exe file);
• open the program;
• select "File" - "Open";
• find the file you need and select it;
• ready!

Smith Micro StuffIt Deluxe 2010 (or 2011)

A powerful archiver, popular with users of the "apple" operating system.

Advantage: developers provide two versions of the program, for both Windows and Mac.

Disadvantages: multifunctionality makes it difficult to work with the program, there is no installation wizard (you will have to install it manually), the software is represented by a package of programs, and not a single utility.

How to open a file * .pak with Smith Micro StuffIt Deluxe:

1. Run the program.
2. Click on Open and select the file.
3. Click the Quick Tools tab.
4. In the form with the name Extract, put the switch from Open to Extract.
5. Enter the path to the folder where the file is unzipped.
6. Click Run.

File type - game file

Below is a list of programs for those who are looking for how to open the * .pak file obtained from the game.

1. Simutrans. There are versions for both Windows and Mac and Linux. Created to work with Simutrans Pak files.
2. PAK Explorer - allows you to create and manage pak containers. English interface. Suitable only for Windows (from XP to 8, including Vista).
3. DePacker - a program for Windows, allows you to work with encrypted files. This and previous programs are used primarily to open * .pak files obtained from video games.
4. PakBuilder is a small utility that creates and works with files Simutrans Pak.

Alternative option

Another way to open a file * .pak:

1. Go to the folder with the file.
2. Just in case, make a copy of the file.
3. Click on it and call the context menu (right mouse button).
4. Select "Rename" from the list.
5. Manually rename the file extension to * .zip.
6. Open it through a regular archiver.

This instruction only works in halfcases, because the file can be encrypted or contain incompatible formats for * .zip files. Therefore, it is recommended to make a copy, so as not to damage the source.