What is a PAF file?
A .PAF file is most commonly a genealogy family tree database created by Personal Ancestral File, a legacy genealogy program developed by FamilySearch. These files store detailed personal histories, relationships, dates, and family connections. However, the .PAF extension is also used by several other completely different formats. It can be a RAW image file from a Panasonic digital camera, a software activation license file for Enfocus PitStop Pro, a printed circuit board (PCB) design file in the CADIF standard, or a portable application installer package used by PortableApps.com.
How to open PAF files?
Because a .PAF file has multiple possible meanings, opening it depends on identifying its actual format. Genealogy database files can be opened using the original Personal Ancestral File software or imported into modern genealogy tools like Ancestral Quest. Panasonic RAW images open in standard photography software such as Adobe Lightroom. Portable application installers are Windows executables that install software to a portable drive.
Best practices and troubleshooting
Guessing the correct software for a .PAF file can be difficult. Never run a .PAF file if you suspect it is an executable installer unless you completely trust the source. If you have a genealogy database, it is highly recommended to export the data to the universal .GED (GEDCOM) format for long-term preservation. You can easily convert your files to sensible target formats like .GED or .JPG using convert.guru.
Summary
If you are unsure what kind of file you have, viewer.online/paf analyzes .PAF files to identify their exact format and creator software, shows which programs can open the file, and usually previews it. Ultimately, viewer.online/paf directly opens and previews .PAF files in the browser, eliminating the need to install software or troubleshoot compatibility issues.