PEM File

What are PEM files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening a PEM file or are you simply curious about its contents? We're here to explain the properties of these files and provide you with software that can open or handle your PEM files.

What is a PEM file?

Files with the .pem extension are most commonly associated with privacy-enhanced mail certificates. The PEM files contain encoded certificate files that are used to authenticate a secure Website connection. The PEM certificates are imported from a Web server and allow users to confirm and authenticate their identity.

The .pem file extension is also used for audio module files, Corel WordPerfect program editor macro files and Pidgin instant messenger certification files.

How to open PEM files

Important: Different programs may use files with the PEM file extension for different purposes, so unless you are sure which format your PEM file is, you may need to try a few different programs.

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

Last updated: July 22, 2024

Various apps that use files with this extension

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

Help us help others

File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about PEM file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.