Four Easy Ways to Open JAR Files

The scenario: You have a file with the JAR file extension on your computer that you need to open. You double-click it as usual, expecting for a program to load it up, but sadly nothing happens. You try it again, but still nothing happens. What can you do? Try these four easy methods to open a troublesome JAR file.

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1File types that are unsupported can be opened in binary format.

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1st Method: Open it in another program.

When you double-click JAR files, your computer attempts to open it in a program associated with JAR files. If there’s no program associated with JAR files on your computer, the file won’t open. To open the file, download one of the most popular programs associated with JAR files such as JARCS Compressed Archive, JAR Archive, or Java Archive.

2nd Method: Take a hint from the file type.

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The JAR file extension usually indicates it's under the umbrella of Executable Files. However, if it’s another file type, it might not open with one of the programs listed above. Take the following steps to find the file type:

  1. Right-click the file.
  2. Click “Properties” (Windows) or “More Info” (Mac).
  3. Locate the file type under either “Type of File” (Windows) or “Kind” (Mac).

3rd Method: Check with the developer.

So you’ve tried using a different program, you’ve confirmed the file type, and your JAR file still won’t open. Even if these methods were unsuccessful, you might still be able to reach out to a software developer for help. Use the chart below to find the developer for each of the programs mentioned above and contact them directly for assistance.

Software Developed By
JARCS Compressed Archive JPMdL Archival System
JAR Archive ARJ Software Inc.
Java Archive Sun Microsystems Inc.
Java Applet Sun

4th Method: Open it in a universal file viewer.

If the developer isn’t able to help, a universal file viewer probably can. File Magic (Download) and similar programs are designed to open a wide variety of file formats, including JAR files. Some aren’t compatible and will only open in binary. Download File Magic now to open you JAR and hundreds of other file types with one program!

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