﻿ DIZ File Extension - What is it and how to open DIZ format

Opening DIZ files

Have a problem opening a .DIZ file? We collect information about file formats and can explain what DIZ files are. Additionally we recommend software suitable for opening or converting such files.

What is the .DIZ file type?

The DIZ extension itself dates back to BBS's (Bulletin Board Systems), dial-up digital information exchange services. DIZ stands for Description In Zip. On a BBS, every .zip archive was required to contain a description text file named exactly 'file_id.diz' for automated description purposes.

DIZ files are small (~1Kb) plaintext and human-readable files, the purpose of which is to provide concise description of the archive contents. A .diz file can be opened, viewed and edited with any text editor on any platform. A DIZ file is conventionally required to be shorter than 450 characters, and any ASCII-art and advertisements inside a .diz file are highly discouraged.


The .diz extension can still be found in description and notes files in software and other archives. DIZ files (along with NFO files) are also actively used by software pirate groups inside their pirated 'release' archives.

There is no default association for the .diz extension in Windows, however, this extension may be associated with some text editors (if installed).

Software to open or convert DIZ files

You can open DIZ files with the following programs:
GetDiz by Outertech
NFOPad by True Human Design
Notepad++ by Notepad++ Team

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