.FLV file extension
To open .FLV files on Windows, right-click the .FLV file and select 'Open with'.
FLV files are video files often associated with Adobe Flash Player. Use a compatible media player to open them.
Last updated: March 19, 2026 · Reviewed by Julian Stricker
Open on your device
Choose your operating system for a dedicated step-by-step opening guide.
How to open .FLV files
Use these platform-specific instructions to open .FLV files safely.
Windows
- Right-click the .FLV file and select 'Open with'.
- Choose a media player like VLC or Adobe Flash Player.
Mac
- Control-click the .FLV file and select 'Open With'.
- Use VLC Media Player or another compatible app.
Linux
- Right-click the .FLV file and select 'Open With'.
- Choose VLC Media Player or a similar application.
iOS
- Transfer the .FLV file to an app like VLC for iOS using iTunes or AirDrop.
Android
- Open the .FLV file with a media player app like MX Player or VLC for Android.
Security notes
- Only download FLV files from reputable sources.
- Use antivirus software to scan files before opening.
- Be cautious of FLV files with unexpected scripts or embedded content.
Recommended antivirus software
Scan files before opening them. These antivirus tools help protect against malware and viruses.
Avast offers free and premium antivirus software that protects against viruses, malware, ransomware, and phishing. Scan files before opening them to ensure safety.
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Can't open this file?
These are the most common causes and fixes when .FLV files fail to open.
Common reasons
- FLV file does not open
- Poor video quality
Fix steps
- Ensure a compatible media player like VLC is installed.
- Check the file integrity and source.
- Try using a different media player.
OS-specific troubleshooting
Convert .FLV to other formats
Use conversion tools to change .FLV files into formats your software supports.
- .FLV → .3G2
- .FLV → .3G2
- .FLV → .3GP
- .FLV → .3GP
- .FLV → .AAC
- .FLV → .ASF
- .FLV → .ASF
- .FLV → .AVI
- .FLV → .AVI
- .FLV → .AVI
- .FLV → .DAT
- .FLV → .DAV
- .FLV → .DIVX
- .FLV → .DV
- .FLV → .DVRMS
- .FLV → .F4V
- .FLV → .FLAC
- .FLV → .M2T
- .FLV → .M2TS
- .FLV → .M2TS
- .FLV → .M4A
- .FLV → .M4V
- .FLV → .M4V
- .FLV → .M4V
- .FLV → .MKV
- .FLV → .MKV
- .FLV → .MKV
- .FLV → .MOD
- .FLV → .MOV
- .FLV → .MOV
- .FLV → .MOV
- .FLV → .MP3
- .FLV → .MP4
- .FLV → .MP4
- .FLV → .MP4
- .FLV → .MPEG
- .FLV → .MPEG
- .FLV → .MPG
- .FLV → .MPG
- .FLV → .MTS
- .FLV → .MXF
- .FLV → .MXF
- .FLV → .OGG
- .FLV → .OGV
- .FLV → .OGV
- .FLV → .RM
- .FLV → .RMVB
- .FLV → .SWF
- .FLV → .SWF
- .FLV → .TOD
- .FLV → .TP
- .FLV → .TRP
- .FLV → .TS
- .FLV → .VOB
- .FLV → .VOB
- .FLV → .VRO
- .FLV → .WAV
- .FLV → .WEBM
- .FLV → .WEBM
- .FLV → .WEBM
- .FLV → .WMA
- .FLV → .WMV
- .FLV → .WMV
- .FLV → .WMV
- .FLV → .WTV
- .FLV → .XVID
What is a .FLV file?
FLV, or Flash Video, is a file format used to deliver video content over the Internet using Adobe Flash Player. It is designed for streaming and is widely used for embedding videos on websites.
Background
The FLV format was developed by Macromedia and became a popular choice for streaming video content over the web due to its efficient compression and compatibility with Adobe Flash Player. Despite the decline of Flash technology, FLV files are still used in some legacy systems and applications. They are particularly known for their use in video sharing websites and online streaming services during the early 2000s. Although Flash technology is being phased out, many media players and conversion tools still support the FLV format, allowing users to play or convert these files to more modern formats.
Common MIME types: video/x-flv
Further reading
Authoritative resources for more details on the .FLV format.
Common .FLV issues
FLV file does not open
The file may not open if the necessary software is not installed or if the file is corrupted.
- Ensure a compatible media player like VLC is installed.
- Check the file integrity and source.
- Try using a different media player.
Poor video quality
Low-quality playback can result from the original encoding settings.
- Check if a higher quality version of the file is available.
- Use a media player with better decoding capabilities.
FAQ
Can I convert FLV to another format?
Yes, use video conversion software like HandBrake or online converters.
Why can't I open FLV files in my browser?
Browsers no longer support Flash Player, so FLV files must be opened with a standalone media player.
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