- A PFX file lets you securely transfer your passwords and other encrypted information from one computer to another. This allows you to access data using stored passwords rather than re-entering them on each machine. PFX files are also used to store encrypted files as part of a backup housed separately from the computer or to remove Encryption File System recovery keys for backup.
- The .pfx extension is just one possible extension for a PKCS #12 file, the technical name for the private key and public certificate files in your Personal Information Exchange. These files also use the extension .p12. Internet Explorer 5.5 and later, Mozilla Firefox and Netscape all support both extensions.
- Due to the sensitive nature of the information on PFX files, they generally require a password to open them. Creating a PFX file usually means using a PFX export wizard, which will have you create a key for the file. When you import it on the new computer, you need that key to remove the envelope or container around the file. The key is not related to your passwords within the file unless you choose to use the same password in the export wizard.
- If you come across a PFX file on your computer that you don't think is part of the security processes, it may be associated with a different program. Amiga Pageflipper Plus F/X uses this extension for its animation files, and First Choice Software's document files may use this extension. As with any unknown file, try to find its source before you open or delete a PFX file, as it may be necessary to your computer's operation.
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