What is an UPDATE file?
An .UPDATE file is a data package used to upgrade software, system components, or hardware firmware. The exact content of an .UPDATE file depends on the system that created it. A common use is a Sitecore update package. Sitecore uses this format to deploy content and configuration changes.
Other systems also use the .UPDATE extension. For example, Barco uses these files for projector firmware updates, and Behringer uses them to update the firmware on their digital mixers. The extension is also used as a game data update archive for Phantasy Star Online Blue Burst, and as an ISAPI Update File developed by EggCentric.
How to open UPDATE files?
Because the .UPDATE file extension is used by multiple hardware and software systems, you need to know its origin to apply it correctly. Hardware firmware updates are typically loaded onto a USB drive and inserted directly into the device, such as a Barco projector or Behringer mixer.
If the file is a Sitecore update package, it is actually a standard ZIP archive. You can open it with standard decompression tools like 7-Zip or WinRAR.
Inspecting files with viewer.online
If .UPDATE has multiple possible meanings, we recommend using viewer.online/update to identify the actual format of your file. viewer.online/update analyzes .UPDATE files to identify their exact format and creator software, shows which programs can open the file, and usually previews it.
Summary
Because .UPDATE files use the known ZIP format, viewer.online/update can safely open and display them online, eliminating compatibility problems.