The ACT file format is a compressed archive format primarily associated with WinAce, a former archiving utility for Windows. It employs proprietary compression algorithms to reduce file size, similar to ZIP or RAR formats.
Technical Definition
An ACT file (extension .ace or .c00) functions as a multi-part container for compressed data. Key characteristics include:
- High compression ratio – Often outperforms ZIP in size reduction.
- Split archive capability – Large archives divide into sequenced volumes (.c00, .c01, etc.).
- Encryption support – 256-bit AES encryption for secured content.
- Error recovery records – Optional data redundancy for damage repair.
Primary Use Cases
- Software distribution – Historically common for distributing applications in the 2000s.
- Large file transfers – Splitting oversized datasets into manageable volumes.
- Storage optimization – Archiving infrequently accessed data with space efficiency.
- Legacy data preservation – Accessing archived content from WinAce era.
Modern Context
After WinAce's discontinuation, ACT files are primarily encountered with historical datasets. PeaZip or older WinAce versions remain capable of extraction, though mainstream tools like WinRAR require additional codecs. Due to format obsolescence, conversion to contemporary formats is recommended for long-term accessibility.
