Have you ever downloaded a program or opened an archive to find a mysterious .1ST file? These files often leave users scratching their heads. In this guide, we’ll break down what a .1ST file is, how to open it, and why it exists—with insights from FileInfo.
What Is a .1ST File?
A .1ST file is typically a readme or documentation file included with software installations, games, or archived downloads. Historically, developers used this extension to highlight important information users should review first.
Common Uses of .1ST Files
- Software Installation Notes – Contains setup instructions or licensing terms.
- Game Documentation – Might include walkthroughs, controls, or credits.
- Archive Metadata – Some ZIP/RAR files include a .1ST file describing contents.
According to FileInfo, these files are usually plain text, meaning they can be opened with basic tools—no special software needed.
How to Open a .1ST File
Since .1ST files are almost always text-based, opening them is straightforward. Here are your best options:
1. Using a Text Editor
- Windows: Notepad, Notepad++, or WordPad.
- Mac: TextEdit, BBEdit, or VS Code.
- Linux: Gedit, Nano, or Vim.
Simply right-click → Open With and select your preferred editor.
2. Viewing in a Web Browser
Drag and drop the file into Chrome, Firefox, or Edge—most browsers will display the text.
3. Command Line (For Advanced Users)
- Windows:
type filename.1STin Command Prompt. - Mac/Linux:
cat filename.1STorless filename.1STin Terminal.
Troubleshooting .1ST File Issues
Problem: File Won’t Open
- Corruption? Try re-downloading the source archive.
- Wrong Format? If the file isn’t plain text, it might be mislabeled. Use a hex editor like HxD to check.
Problem: Garbled Text
- The file might use an obsolete encoding (e.g., ASCII). Try opening it in Notepad++ and adjusting the character set.
Can I Delete .1ST Files?
Yes, but check the contents first—some contain critical license keys or setup steps.
.1ST vs. Other Readme Formats
| Extension | Typical Use | Format |
|---|---|---|
| .1ST | Priority readme (old software) | Plain text |
| .TXT | General notes | Plain text |
| .MD | Modern documentation (Markdown) | Formatted text |
Unlike .TXT files, which are generic, .1ST files were often intentionally named to catch the user’s attention first.
Final Thoughts
While .1ST files are relics of early computing, they still appear in legacy software and archives. Most can be opened with a text editor, but always scan the contents before deleting—you might find useful (or nostalgic) info!
For more details, visit FileInfo’s .1ST file page.
Have you encountered a .1ST file? Share your experience in the comments! 🔍