The .DAT is a generic format that represents data files and among the popular system files that use the extension is INDEX.DAT. This file has a shield attribute that allows visited websites to store details on use and although the user may clear the website surfing history, these details still remain on the website. Though the .DAT file extension is incapable of concealing itself, it is usually stored in the hidden properties of either a folder or a directory. The location of the file however varies depending on the application that authored it.

Cannot open dat files in Windows?

Not being able to open dat files in Windows may be a result of registry errors or not having the appropriate application installed. It is strongly recommended that you scan your computer for registry errors (free).

There is no definite way to identifying application that authored the .DAT file, with some luck though, some of these files could be opened on most text editors. Video streams could also be represented in the .DAT extensions that use the MPEG format. Such open in most media players although video playback may require the user to manually access the device on the system. Most errors occur if one does not use the appropriate application to open the file, although a virus infected system could also exhibit the same the same behaviour.