Files that contain the ORIG extension are renamed by the PC user before a new file is created in its place. The purpose of the file extension ORIG is to create a backup copy of a file in the event the file created in its place becomes damaged or corrupt. In this case, you can simply change the ORIG extension back to its original extension for use with the corresponding program it is associated with.
ORIG file extensions signify the original file for a program or application and are a generic file type that contains data related to the application which created the file. It can be difficult to determine the origin of this type of file without knowing the original extension or being able to read the file header.
ORIG file extension was formerly used for software development for the purpose of labeling backup copies of files associated with different applications. The extension is also commonly used with UNIX-based operating systems. It stores the original patch whenever security updates are performed. If the patch becomes damaged or corrupt or the system becomes unstable for any reason, you can simply roll it back to the patch with the ORIG file extension.
How to Open ORIG Files
Since it is difficult to tell which program or application an ORIG file is associated with, you can try to open the file by double clicking on it to see if it will automatically open in the application that created it. If the ORIG file was created on your PC, chances are you have the program installed that will open it.
If you use Windows and one of the files for a program or application becomes damaged or corrupt, you may not be able to see the ORIG file by searching in Windows Explorer. Once ORIG files are created, they are typically classified as a hidden file type. In order to locate the file, click on Start and then choose My Computer from the pop-up menu. If you use Windows 7, type Explorer into the Start Search box.
Once you open My Computer, choose the C Drive and click on Tools on the main toolbar in the window. Click on Folder Options from the drop-down menu and allow the list to load. Remove the check mark from Hide File Extensions, click on Apply, and then click OK. This will allow you to see hidden file extensions in Windows Explorer.
Find the program or application with a problem and open the folder. Look for the ORIG file extension in the folder and then change it to the extension associated with the program. Double click to open the ORIG file in the corresponding program.
It is also important to mention if you create the ORIG file, remember to include the file type with the extension. For example, if the file type is XLS, such as for Microsoft Excel, then name the extension .xls.orig.
