Opening VCD files

Did your computer fail to open a VCD file? We explain what VCD files are and recommend software that we know can open or convert your VCD files.

What is a VCD file?

The .vcd file extension is given to virtual CD files. A virtual CD file is an image of the data that has been recorded on a CD. This image is recognized by Windows as an actual disk. This makes it possible for CD's and DVD's to be run on a computer without requiring the actual disk to be in the drive.

The VCD file format allows users to play an application on network computers without having the actual disk on each computer linked to the network.

The .vcd file extension is also used for files created with the GNU VCDImager application. This computer application is used for creating Video CDs and Super Video CDs.

The .vcd file extension is also used by JVC, Sony, Matsushita and Philips to store VHS quality videos on optical CDs. The videos created onto the CD can then be played and edited later on a user's computer with video-editing software.