How to open a .cfg file
Quick, free ways to open CFG on any system.
A .cfg file is a Configuration File. If double-clicking does nothing, your computer simply does not have an app that reads CFG yet. Here is how to fix that on each operating system, using free software wherever possible.
Open a .cfg file step by step
- Confirm the file really is a .cfg. Drop it into the WhatFileType file identifier, which reads its signature without uploading anything.
- On Windows, open it with Notepad++ or VS Code.
- On Mac, use VS Code or TextEdit.
- On Linux, try nano or VS Code.
- Still stuck? Search for a dedicated CFG viewer.
Best apps to open .cfg files
Windows
- Notepad++
- VS Code
- any text editor
macOS
- VS Code
- TextEdit
- any text editor
Linux
- nano
- VS Code
- any text editor
!
Before you open it: Usually safe. Most .cfg files are plain text settings. As always, only edit configuration for software you understand, and keep a backup.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I open my .cfg file?
Almost always because no installed app understands CFG. Install one of the apps above, or convert the file to a format your existing software already reads.
How do I open a .cfg file?
Open it in a text editor like VS Code or Notepad++. Most .cfg files are readable text, even though the exact layout depends on the program.
Can I edit a .cfg file?
Often yes, but only if you know the program's settings. Back up the original first, since a bad value can stop the software from starting.