JSON files are backup files which are used to save bookmarks in Mozilla Firefox web browser. The files provide a way to retrieve your bookmarks in the event you have lost them. JSON stands for JavaScript Object Notation which is data interchange format that is text-based and represents data structures and objects created by JavaScript scripting language.
JSON format provides a way to transmit data between a server and a web application such as Bookmarks for Mozilla Firefox and contain textual data. JSON files are built using two different structures which include objects that are value pairs and an array that is classed as a list of values. The data structures which are used in JSON files are designed as a universal programming language. This means it can be supported by a variety of web browsers in addition to Mozilla Firefox.
How to Open JSON Files
Not all applications save JSON files for backup, especially when the data interchange occurs between two devices connected to the Internet. If you use Mozilla Firefox, the browser automatically saves backup files of your bookmarks in the JSON format.
You can locate JSON files in the Firefox folder, which is labeled Bookmark Backups, or you can choose to save bookmark files to an external storage device and then import them whenever you install a new version of Firefox. Or whenever you want to open JSON files, all you have to do is import the files into your browser.
If you use Windows, you can open JSON files with Notepad or other type of text editor to view the contents. Simply right click on the file and then choose Open With from the drop-down menu. Click on Notepad on the submenu or click Browse if Notepad is not listed to open and view JSON files. You may also use WordPad or Altova XMLSpy to open these files.
For Mac OS X you can open JSON files using Apple TextEdit or other compatible text editor which will allow you to view the contents. You can also use Bare Bones TextWrangler which is a text and HTML editor designed for Mac PCs or MacVim designed for Mac OS X.
If you use Linux, you can open and view JSON files with Vim for Linux, which is a highly configurable text editor, or you can use another editor such as Pico or GNU Emacs.
JSON files can also be opened by all three previously mentioned operating systems using Mozilla Firefox. Additionally, Firefox offers an add-on known as JSONView which will open and display JSON file extensions similar to how XML documents are shown.
