MDF File Type

- The quick facts

What are MDF files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a MDF file or just wondering what they contain? We explain what these files are used for and show you software that we know can open or otherwise handle your files.

What is a MDF file?

MDF files have multiple uses, and Media Disk is one of them.

Media Disk File

Files given the .mdf extension contain a disc image of data saved on a CD or DVD. MDF files are similar to ISO files, but they are saved in a different format. The MDF file must be saved with an associated MDS file for the DVD or CD data to be played back correctly.

The actual data on the CD/DVD is stored in the file with the .mdf extension, while the file with the .mds extension stores the disc's header and track information. These files allow you to play the media contained on a CD or DVD without having the actual disc in your computer's CD or DVD drive.

How to open MDF files

We have identified 5 MDF openers that are compatible with this specific type of MDF file.

Programs that open Media Disk files

Last updated: March 26, 2022

All known file formats using extension .MDF

While Media Disk File is a popular type of MDF-file, we know of 6 different uses of the .MDF extension. Different software may use files with the same extension for different types of data.

SDL Trados Translation Index File

In this case, MDF is short for Memory Data Find. These files are index files that make searching for translation faster using the Trados translation software.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested 10 different MDF openers which you will find listed below.

More file formats using the MDF extension

Through our research of MDF files, we know that the following formats exist. However, we have not yet analyzed them in detail, and we would love to hear from you if you have information about either of them.

AUMenu Menu Definition

MDIFF Patch File

Microsoft SQL Server Database

SNAP Main Data File

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of MDF files. Remember, different programs may use MDF files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.