FileHint
JAEN

.dat

Use caution

Generic data file

A catch-all extension meaning 'some kind of data'. Game saves, email TNEF, app logs — all hide behind `.dat`.

MIME types

  • application/octet-stream

Category

data

What opens this file

  • Depends on the originating app
  • File Signature Checker
  • HxD

How to open by OS

Windows

  • Depends on source app.

Mac

  • Same.

Linux

  • Same.

Ios

  • Same.

Android

  • Same.

Safety notes

  • A winmail.dat attachment is typically Outlook TNEF; unwrap with Winmail Opener.
  • A .dat can disguise a PE/EXE. Always inspect the real bytes before opening.

Common mistakes

  • Guessing apps to open a .dat wastes time — inspect the first bytes first.
  • Assuming two files with the same .dat name are related. They often aren't.

Related extensions

References