.pf file extension

.pf

Windows Prefetch file.

A Windows prefetch file holds information about which programs are frequently run and stores this and other performance related information in a .pf file. Prefetch files (.pf) are stored in C:\Windows\Prefetch.

Windows Help and Support says the following about Prefetch files:

Each time you turn on your computer, Windows keeps track of the way your computer starts and which programs you commonly open. Windows saves this information as a number of small files in the prefetch folder. The next time you turn on your computer, Windows refers to these files to help speed the start process.

The prefetch folder is a subfolder of the Windows system folder. The prefetch folder is self-maintaining, and there's no need to delete it or empty its contents. If you empty the folder, Windows and your programs will take longer to open the next time you turn on your computer.

In general prefetch files should not be deleted as Windows will automatically delete prefetch files that have not been used for a period of time. If a prefetch file is deleted then Windows will automatically recreate it next time it is required (which will slow down the process of loading an application).

For more information see:

• www.osnews.com/story/21471/SuperFetch_How_it_Works_Myths - SuperFetch: How it Works and Myths.

Can you add to this? Do you know of any applications not already listed which will work with .pf files, view .pf files or open .pf files? Are you able to contribute any additional reference information or file format information about .pf files or have you spotted any errors or omissions? If so please let us know by emailing us at feedback@cryer.co.uk - Thank you.