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.AVI file extension

To open .AVI files on Windows, right-click the .AVI file and select 'Open with'.

AVI files can be opened using media players like VLC or Windows Media Player. To open an .AVI file, use a compatible application on your device.

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Last updated: June 11, 2026 · Reviewed by Julian Stricker

What “reviewed” means on this page
  • Format fit: whether the “what is this file?” description matches common real-world use of the extension, including category, typical MIME types, and aliases.
  • Opening paths: whether Windows / macOS / Linux steps read plausibly for current OS dialogs and default apps; we remove fantasy menus and unsafe shortcuts.
  • Security framing: whether risk notes match the extension class (for example executables vs plain data) and whether affiliate wording does not contradict the security section.
  • Sources and further reading: whether external links point to vendors, standards bodies, or other primary references where possible; we avoid inventing details we cannot ground.
  • Limits: this is clarity and safety-messaging QA, not a guarantee that every statement is exhaustive or that every binary you download is harmless.

Full methodology in the Imprint — The Imprint also states where AI is used and what that does—and does not—replace.

Open on your device

Choose your operating system for a dedicated step-by-step opening guide.

How to open .AVI files

Use these platform-specific instructions to open .AVI files safely.

Windows

  1. Right-click the .AVI file and select 'Open with'.
  2. Choose 'Windows Media Player' or 'VLC Media Player'.
Full Windows guide

Mac

  1. Control-click the .AVI file and select 'Open With'.
  2. Choose 'QuickTime Player' or 'VLC Media Player' for better compatibility.
Full Mac guide

Linux

  1. Right-click the .AVI file and select 'Open With'.
  2. Choose 'VLC Media Player' or another installed media player.
Full Linux guide

iOS

  1. Install and use a third-party app like 'VLC for iOS' to open the .AVI file.
Full iOS guide

Android

  1. Use a media player app such as 'VLC for Android' to open the .AVI file.
Full Android guide

Security notes

  • Download .AVI files only from reputable sources to avoid malware.
  • Keep your media player software up to date to protect against security vulnerabilities.
  • Avoid opening .AVI files from unknown senders to prevent potential security risks.

Complex decoders and untrusted media

Image, audio, and video decoders are large software surfaces; issues are uncommon for everyday files but show up with crafted files from unknown sources. Keeping the OS and media apps updated matters most; scanning is reasonable extra caution for downloads you cannot vouch for.

Avast

Avast offers free and premium antivirus software that protects against viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing. Scan files before opening them to ensure safety.

Norton

Norton 360 delivers comprehensive antivirus protection, VPN, and identity theft monitoring. Scan files for threats before opening to keep your device secure.

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Can't open this file?

These are the most common causes and fixes when .AVI files fail to open.

Common reasons

  • AVI file won't play
  • No sound in AVI file
  • AVI file is too large

Fix steps

  1. Install VLC Media Player, which supports a wide range of codecs.
  2. Verify the file's integrity by downloading it again.

OS-specific troubleshooting

Convert .AVI to other formats

Use conversion tools to change .AVI files into formats your software supports.

What is a .AVI file?

AVI, which stands for Audio Video Interleave, is a multimedia container format developed by Microsoft. It allows synchronous audio-with-video playback and supports multiple streaming audio and video. AVI is known for its simplicity and compatibility across different systems.

Background

The AVI format was introduced by Microsoft in November 1992 as part of its Video for Windows technology. It is based on the Resource Interchange File Format (RIFF), which organizes data into chunks, making it easy to process. AVI files are widely used due to their straightforward structure and compatibility with various media players and editing software. However, they can be large because they often contain uncompressed video data, which can be a downside for storage and streaming. Despite these limitations, AVI remains a popular choice for video editing and playback, particularly on Windows systems, due to its broad support and ease of use.

Common MIME types: video/x-msvideo

Further reading

Authoritative resources for more details on the .AVI format.

Common .AVI issues

AVI file won't play

This issue can occur if the necessary codec is missing or the file is corrupted.

  1. Install VLC Media Player, which supports a wide range of codecs.
  2. Verify the file's integrity by downloading it again.

No sound in AVI file

The audio codec may not be supported by your media player.

  1. Try playing the file with VLC Media Player.
  2. Check your system's audio settings for proper configuration.

AVI file is too large

AVI files can be large due to uncompressed video data.

  1. Consider converting the file to a more compressed format like MP4 using HandBrake.
  2. Ensure you have sufficient storage space for large files.

FAQ

Can I convert other video formats to .AVI?

Yes, you can use video conversion software like HandBrake or online converters.

Why is my AVI file so large?

AVI files can be large because they often contain uncompressed video data.

What software can be used to edit AVI files?

Software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Avidemux, and VirtualDub can be used to edit AVI files.

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