.EFI File Extension

Executable and Linkable Format File

An EFI file contains interface for platform firmware and operating system. EFI files define booting environment and run pre-boot apps. Typically, EFI files are not openable. Advanced users can open EF...

General Information

Title EFI File Extension
Extension .efi
Full Form Executable and Linkable Format File
File Type System File
Developer Unified EFI Forum
MIME Type application/octet-stream

File Function

Primary Function Boot manager code
Additional Functions OS loaders, UEFI applications
Features UEFI-based, Executable

File Characteristics

Quality System critical
Supports Layers N/A
Supports Transparency N/A
Editable No

Use Cases

Boot Process Yes
System Recovery Yes
Firmware Updates Yes

Security and Practices

Security Risks Firmware malware
Best Practices Secure boot, Signature verification

Historical/Version Information

Initial Release 2000s
Latest Version UEFI 2.8 (2020)

Associated Types

Similar Extensions .dll, .exe, .bin

Software Compatibility

Software Usage Policy OS Compatibility
UEFI Firmware Integrated Hardware Dependent
UEFI Shell Free UEFI-compliant systems