.CREC File Extension
Lync Video File
| Developer | Microsoft |
| Popularity | |
| Category | Video Files |
| Format | .CREC |
| Cross Platform | Update Soon |
What is an CREC file?
The .CREC file extension represents a specific type of video file associated with Microsoft’s Lync, a unified communications platform.
These files are used to store video recordings of meetings, calls, or other interactions conducted through the Lync application.
Lync was later rebranded as Skype for Business, and these files are typically used in a professional setting to review and archive communications.
More Information.
The initial release of Lync and the .CREC file format was aimed at enhancing business communications by integrating voice, video, and instant messaging into a unified platform.
The .CREC files were introduced to support the recording functionality of Lync, allowing users to capture video and audio of meetings, presentations, and calls.
This feature was particularly useful for businesses that needed to retain records of their communications for future reference or compliance with regulatory requirements.
In 2015, Microsoft rebranded Lync as Skype for Business, which continued to use the .CREC file format for recording purposes.
The transition from Lync to Skype for Business did not change the file format, but it continued to serve the same purpose of storing video recordings of business communications.
Origin Of This File.
The .CREC file format was introduced by Microsoft in conjunction with the Lync communication platform.
Lync was first released in 2010 as a part of the Microsoft Office suite, designed to facilitate instant messaging, voice, and video communications for businesses. The .CREC file format was developed as a proprietary format to store recordings made during Lync sessions.
The primary objective was to offer users a means to review and archive their communications for training, compliance, or record-keeping purposes.
File Structure Technical Specification.
The .CREC file format is a proprietary format developed by Microsoft, and its structure is not openly documented.
Based on user experience and technical analysis, the file typically contains a combination of video, audio, and metadata related to the recorded session.
- Video and Audio Data: The primary content of a .CREC file is the recorded video and audio from the Lync session. This data is encoded in a format compatible with Lync’s playback capabilities.
- Metadata: Alongside the multimedia data, .CREC files include metadata that provides information about the recording, such as the date and time of the session, participant details, and other relevant information.
- File Container: The .CREC file functions as a container that encapsulates all these elements into a single file, making it easier to manage and archive.
How to Convert the File?
Converting .CREC files to other formats can be challenging due to their proprietary nature. There are a few methods to consider:
- Using Lync/Skype for Business: The most straightforward method is to use the Lync or Skype for Business application itself to export or convert the recording. These applications may offer options to save recordings in more commonly used formats such as
.MP4or.AVI. - Third-Party Conversion Tools: Although there are no widely recognized third-party tools specifically designed for .CREC file conversion, some general video conversion software might be able to handle .CREC files if they can be imported into the software. Always ensure that you use reliable and trusted tools to avoid potential data corruption.
- Manual Extraction: In some cases, users may resort to extracting video and audio streams from .CREC files manually using advanced media tools. This process can be complex and may require technical expertise.
Advantages And Disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Unified Recording: The .CREC file format allows users to capture both audio and video from Lync sessions in a single file, simplifying the process of recording and reviewing communications.
- Integration with Lync: The format is well-integrated with the Lync (and later Skype for Business) platform, providing a seamless experience for recording and playback.
- Archival and Compliance: For businesses, .CREC files serve as an important tool for compliance and record-keeping, allowing them to archive communications for future reference.
Disadvantages:
- Proprietary Format: The proprietary nature of the .CREC file format can be a limitation, as it may not be easily compatible with other software or systems not developed by Microsoft.
- Limited Playback Options: Users may encounter difficulties playing .CREC files outside of the Lync or Skype for Business environment, as support for this format is not widely available in other media players.
- File Size: Depending on the length and quality of the recording, .CREC files can become quite large, potentially consuming significant storage space.
How to Open CREC?
Open In Windows
- Lync or Skype for Business: The primary method for opening .CREC files is to use the Lync or Skype for Business application. Simply open the application, navigate to the recorded session, and play the file directly within the software.
- Windows Media Player: In some instances, Windows Media Player might be able to play .CREC files if they are converted to a compatible format. However, this is not always guaranteed due to the proprietary nature of the format.
Open In Linux
- No Native Support: Similar to macOS, Linux does not offer native support for .CREC files. Users may need to convert the files to a compatible format or use a Windows virtual machine to access the recordings.
- Media Tools: Advanced media tools or software libraries available on Linux might offer limited support for .CREC files, but this is not guaranteed.
Open In MAC
- No Native Support: .CREC files are not natively supported on macOS. Users will need to convert the file to a more compatible format using software that can handle .CREC files or access the recordings through a Windows-based system.
- Virtual Machines or Emulators: Alternatively, users can run a Windows virtual machine or emulator on macOS to access and open .CREC files using Lync or Skype for Business.
