File Extension Database

Open HFS File

The Hierarchical File System (HFS) is a proprietary file system developed by Apple Inc. for their Macintosh computers. It was introduced with the release of the Macintosh System 4 software in 1984 and served as the main file system for Apple devices until the introduction of the New Technology File System (NTFS) in macOS High Sierra in late 2017. These file systems have the extension .hfs. The Apple HFS page provides comprehensive information on the subject.

Possible Formats for Opening HFS Files

Typically, .hfs files are disk images, much like a .iso file and can be opened by a number of different programs. The 'Disk Utility' tool native to macOS provides a means to mount these disk images as if they were physical disks. If stored on a hard drive or other forms of storage, these .hfs files can then be accessed as with any other file system. You can find more about it on Apple's Disk Utility Support page.

Accessing HFS Files in Non-Apple Systems

While .hfs files are primarily associated with Apple systems, accessing them on other systems such as those running the Windows or Linux operating systems is possible with certain software. For example, on Windows, software such as 'HFSExplorer' and 'Paragon HFS+' can open .hfs files. More details can be found on their official websites, namely HFSExplorer official website and Paragon's HFS+ for Windows.

HFS File Important Information

Before we conclude, it�s pertinent to remember that due to its age, issues such as file size and overall disk size limits are encountered when using HFS. That being said, unless dealing with older, legacy systems or files, it's more advantageous to use a modern file system. Despite these shortcomings, HFS file systems still serve as an iconic part of the Apple ecosystem. More on this can be found on the Apple Developers' page specific to file system documentation.

How Can I Open HFS File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open HFS file is to find a HFS file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a HFS file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open HFS file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as HFS file opener then try to search online for "HFS viewer", "application to open HFS file" or "open HFS file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open HFS file

How Can I Open HFS File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a HFS file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a HFS file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with HFS file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as HFS file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open HFS file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open HFS file then try to search for "HFS viewer", "application to open HFS file" or "read HFS file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read HFS file

How Can I Open HFS File on Android

If you downloaded a HFS file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded HFS file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "HFS".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "HFS viewer", "HFS file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open HFS File on iPhone or iPad

To open HFS File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the HFS file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "HFS". This way you can find apps which can open HFS files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "HFS viewer" or "HFS file" online in your favorite search engine.

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