.CAT File Extension
Windows Catalog File
| Developer | Microsoft |
| Popularity | |
| Category | System Files |
| Format | .CAT |
| Cross Platform | Update Soon |
What is an CAT file?
.CAT files, short for Windows Catalog, are utilized by Microsoft Windows operating systems to digitally sign and catalog collections of files. They serve as a means to ensure the integrity and authenticity of software components by providing a list of file names and cryptographic hash values.
More Information.
Initially introduced in Windows 2000, .CAT files were primarily designed to support the Windows Driver Signing feature, which aimed to enhance system stability and security by ensuring that only properly signed and verified drivers could be installed on the system.
Origin Of This File.
The concept of .CAT files originated with Microsoft’s need for a reliable method to verify the integrity of system files and device drivers in Windows operating systems.
File Structure Technical Specification.
.CAT files are structured in a tab-delimited text format and contain information such as file names, cryptographic hash values (usually MD5 or SHA-1), and digital signatures. They are typically created using the MakeCat tool provided by Microsoft.
How to Convert the File?
Windows: .CAT files are native to Windows, and they can be easily handled using built-in tools like Notepad or specialized utilities like Microsoft MakeCat.
Linux: On Linux, you can use text editors like Nano or Vim to view and edit .CAT files. Additionally, cryptographic tools such as OpenSSL can be used to verify signatures if needed.
Mac: Similar to Linux, .CAT files can be opened and edited using text editors like TextEdit or third-party applications capable of handling tab-delimited text files. Tools like OpenSSL can also be used for cryptographic operations.
Android: Android devices typically do not have built-in support for .CAT files. However, you can use file manager apps or text editors available on the Google Play Store to view and edit these files. Again, cryptographic tools may be required for signature verification.
iOS: iOS devices have limited support for viewing and editing files outside of their sandboxed environment. You might need to transfer the .CAT file to a computer and use compatible software like Notepad or TextEdit to work with it. Alternatively, there may be specialized apps available on the App Store for handling text files.
Others: For other operating systems or environments, handling .CAT files might require emulation or virtualization of a Windows environment. Tools like Wine on Unix-based systems or virtual machines running Windows can be used to open and work with .CAT files. Additionally, text editors or cryptographic tools compatible with the respective platform can be utilized for viewing and manipulating .CAT file contents.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Ensures the integrity and authenticity of software components.
- Facilitates the installation of signed and verified drivers and system files.
- Enhances system security by preventing the installation of unauthorized or malicious software.
Disadvantages:
- Requires additional overhead for developers to create and maintain .CAT files.
- May complicate the installation process for end-users, particularly if they encounter issues with driver signing or verification.
How to Open CAT?
Open In Windows
Use built-in tools like Notepad or specialized utilities like Microsoft MakeCat.
Open In Linux
Use text editors like Nano or Vim, and cryptographic tools like OpenSSL.
Open In MAC
Use text editors like TextEdit or third-party applications capable of handling tab-delimited text files. Also, use OpenSSL for cryptographic operations.
Open In Android
Use file manager apps or text editors from the Google Play Store. Cryptographic tools may be required.
Open In IOS
Transfer the file to a computer and use compatible software like Notepad or TextEdit. Alternatively, seek specialized apps from the App Store.
Open in Others
For other systems, consider emulation of a Windows environment using tools like Wine or virtual machines running Windows. Additionally, use compatible text editors or cryptographic tools for viewing and manipulation.
