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What is an ASF file?

An ASF (Advanced Systems Format) file is a container file that holds several types of data, like video, audio, and metadata, in a single file. Microsoft developed the file type specifically for sharing and storing media.

ASF files are similar to MPEG-4 files, which are also used for storing video and audio for online playback. They can store audio data or combine video data, audio data, and metadata.

While the ASF file extension saves media in the ASF format, the WMA and WMV extensions are more popular alternatives. If the ASF container stores audio, it saves as a Windows Media Audio (WMA) file. If the ASF file stores video, it saves as a Windows Media Video (WMV) file. Users can compress audio and video data using different containers.

History of the ASF file.

Microsoft developed the Advanced Systems Format between 1996 and 1998 for streaming media. It was formerly known as “Advanced Streaming Format” and “Active Streaming Format” before settling on the current name.

Since its rollout in February 1998, it has been the file type of choice for Windows Media Player. It was originally patented to only be compatible with Microsoft software.

However, it has since been able extended to Apple iTunes, where you can now convert ASF files for use on that platform.

How to open a ASF file.

You can open an ASF file with several media players. Windows Media is the default video player software in Windows that supports ASF files. You can also open ASF files with the VLC media player in macOS and Linux, and with Penta Loop Playerxtreme Media Player in iOS.

How to open ASF in Windows Media Player.

To open an ASF file in Windows Media Player, just:

  1. Search for and open Windows Media Player from the start menu.
  2. Drag the ASF file into Windows Media Player and hit the play button to start or play the video or audio file.

How to open ASF in VLC.

To open an ASF file in VLC Media Player:

  1. Locate your ASF file in your folders.
  2. Double-click to open the file.
  3. Playback should begin automatically.

If you don’t have access to any of these, an alternative approach is to convert your ASF file to another format supported by your chosen media player.

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