ARF Files
If you’ve ever received a recording of an online meeting, you’ve probably seen an ARF file. These files store video and audio data, attendee lists, and more information about the session. Take a closer look at ARF files, what they are, and how they compare to other video file types.
What is an ARF file?
An Advanced Recording Format (ARF) file is a container video file that you're only likely to see if you use WebEx software for your video conferences or calls. They're binary files (computer files that aren’t text files) that can combine:
- Video
- Audio
- Attendance lists
- Chats
- Annotations
- Shared screens
Each separate ARF file can contain up to 24 hours of video recordings, meaning they're large in size and can handle a high volume of data. They're most similar to WRF file types, which are also files that contain video recordings from online calls.
The only difference is that WRFs are files that you create yourself when you decide to record a meeting. ARF files are automatically generated after a call.
History of the ARF file.
The ARF file extension was explicitly created for Webex in 2007. Initially, plans were in place for it to succeed WRF files, but the two extensions now coexist within Webex systems. Today, the ARF extension mainly exists within Webex systems and isn't available outside of Webex-owned recording software. However, there are some exceptions.
How to use ARF files.
Because ARF files can contain a range of different data types, they have a wide variety of uses, despite being exclusive to Webex software.
Meeting records.
Whenever a video call takes place, ARF files help you keep records of all important meetings, including a list of attendees and everything discussed in the meeting chat. The files even keep a record of screen shares, so you can go back and review what someone presented during the video call, should you need to revisit the information.
Resource storage.
Easy4C Tutor, an online education software, uses ARF file extensions to store its resources. Similarly, the legacy video game Pacmania II uses ARF as a game archive format for saving maps, 3D models, sounds, and other game resources.
Pros and cons of ARF files.
Pros.
- Ample storage space. You’ll find that ARF files are a lifesaver when it comes to storing all the essential info from that big meeting you ran online with your team. They’re capable of storing up to 24 hours of video recordings, so there's plenty of storage space for all those important meetings that need archiving.
- Stores a variety of data. ARF files store heaps of data, including video, audio, and chat transcripts. ARF files also store data like maps and more. It’s this versatility that makes ARF files so valuable within a Webex system.
Cons.
- Incompatible with some systems. The major drawback of ARF files is that they aren't compatible with many video viewing software options. Generally, you can only open and view ARF files within Webex systems such as Cisco. However, you can easily convert them into other file formats and open them elsewhere if needed.
How to open a ARF file.
To open an ARF file, you'll need to install Cisco's WebEx Player on your Windows or Mac device. If you've got the right software and still can't open your ARF files, you may need to right-click or long-press on the file and select “Open with.”
Doing this will allow you to choose WebEx Player from your available apps. But, if you receive a browser link directly to an ARF file, you should be able to play it in your browser without having to download the correct player software.
How to create and edit an ARF file.
To create or edit an ARF file, you need to be the host of a video call on Cisco's WebEx Player software and select the Record to Server option when starting your meeting. You can then edit the files within WebEx. Alternatively, you can convert your files to an AVI or MOV file and edit them within Adobe Premiere Pro.
Find out what container types are supported by Adobe Premiere Pro.
{{questions-we-have-answers}}
Can you play an ARF file in Windows Media Player?
How can you convert an ARF file?
- Install the WebEx Network Recording Player for ARF files on your computer.
- Launch the software and go to “File” > “Open” to open the recording file.
- Or you can double-click the ARF file in your Windows File Manager window, which will automatically activate the WebEx Network Recording Player.
- After loading your ARF file, click “File” > “Convert” and select your chosen file type.
- In the “Save” dialog box, specify the location where you are going to place the file.
- Don't forget to select the content elements in the “Content Options Panels” and adjust the quality and video codec.
- Convert the ARF file.
What file types can you convert an ARF to?
Can you convert an ARF file to a MOV file?
Learn more about similar file types to ARF.
MP4.
Discover one of the most common video file formats out there and explore how you can store large amounts of video and audio in smaller file sizes.
SWF.
Containing text, vectors, and interactive content, SWF files are Adobe Flash animation docs that help you create multimedia content. Learn more about them.
AVI.
An AVI file is a form of container video file format that Microsoft created. Explore how they work and how you can use them in your next project.
MPG.
Standardized by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG), MPG video files use a digital format that you can use for your next movie project.
Find out more about our video editing software and the types of files you can create and edit with:
You might also be interested in:
Video Files
Get an overview of the different video files available.
Container Format
We'll show you which container formats are available.
