What is a .BCD file?
The .BCD file extension stands for a RealView Debugger Board Chip Definition File. This type of file is used in Windows computers, starting from Windows Vista, to manage how the computer starts up. Before Windows Vista, a different system called boot.ini was used, but .BCD files have replaced it. The reason for this change is that .BCD files can work with different types of computer systems more easily. They help the computer understand how to start up by providing specific instructions.
If you have a .BCD file and you want to open or edit it, there are a few programs you can use. One of these programs is already on your Windows computer, called Microsoft Registry Editor. This program comes with the operating system, so you don't need to download anything extra to use it. Other programs that can open .BCD files include NeoSmart Technologies EasyBCD and Visual BCD Editor. These programs give you more options and features for managing your computer's startup settings.
It's interesting to note that .BCD files are actually a type of Windows registry file, which means they have a format similar to .REG files. Because of this, you can also use the Windows Registry Editor to make changes to them. Originally, .BCD files were designed to support traditional PC/AT BIOS systems and EFI (a more modern type of firmware), but they are flexible and can be updated to support other types of firmware as well. This flexibility is part of what makes .BCD files an important tool for managing how Windows computers start up.
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