How to Recover .SPF Files from Formatted USB Sticks

Have files been deleted due to a user’s error or software error? Have you formatted a disk by accident and need to know how to recover the files? Read our .SPF file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2025.

How to Recover .SPF Files from Formatted USB Sticks
Data Recovery Tool

What is a .SPF file?

Backup file created by ShadowProtect, a program used for backup and disaster recovery management; contains compressed backup files; used to store all backup files in a single archive rather than using a spanned archive or an incremental backup.

What Are Common Causes of ".SPF" Files Lost or Failure?

There can be several common causes of ".SPF" files lost or failure:

  1. Accidental deletion: Users may accidentally delete ".SPF" files while trying to clean up their system or free up storage space.
  2. Software or hardware issues: Malfunctioning software or hardware can lead to the corruption or loss of ".SPF" files. This can include issues with the operating system, file system errors, or problems with storage devices.
  3. Virus or malware attacks: Malicious software can infect and damage ".SPF" files, making them inaccessible or causing them to be deleted.
  4. Power outages or system crashes: Unexpected power outages or system crashes can interrupt the saving or opening of ".SPF" files, leading to data loss or corruption.
  5. File system errors: Errors within the file system can cause ".SPF" files to become lost or corrupted. This can occur due to improper shutdowns, disk errors, or other system issues.
  6. Human error: Users may accidentally overwrite or modify ".SPF" files, leading to their loss or failure.
  7. Incompatible software or file format: If ".SPF" files are opened or edited with incompatible software or saved in an incompatible file format, it can result in data corruption or loss.
  8. Physical damage or hardware failure: Physical damage to storage devices or hardware failures can lead to the loss or corruption of ".SPF" files.

It is important to regularly back up ".SPF" files and maintain a reliable data recovery system to minimize the impact of such issues.

How to recover lost ".SPF" files?

Sometimes while working with a computer, laptop or other stationary or mobile devices, you may encounter various bugs, freezes, hardware or software failures, even in spite of regular updates and junk cleaning. As a result, an important ".SPF" file may be deleted.

Go to view
🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

By no means should you think that the only way to recover a ".SPF" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".SPF" files if a file was lost after accidental or deliberate deleting, formatting the memory card or the internal storage, cleaning the storage device, after a virus attack or a system failure.

Programs to recover ".SPF" files

Looking for a way to get files back? In cases when files were deleted and they cannot be restored by using standard operating system tools, use Hetman Partition Recovery.

Partition Recovery™ 5.1
The tool recovers data from any devices, regardless of the cause of data loss.
Download

Follow the directions below:

  1. Download Hetman Partition Recovery, install and start the program.

  2. The program will automatically scan the computer and display all hard disks and removable drives connected to it, as well as physical and local disks.

    File Recovery Software

  3. Double-click on the disk from which you need to recover ".SPF" files, and select analysis type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Analysis Type

  4. When the scanning is over, you will be shown the files for recovery.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Files that Can be Restored

  5. To find a file you need, use the program’s interface to open the folder it was deleted from, or go to the folder "Content-Aware Analysis" and select the required file type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Deep Scan

  6. Select the files you have been looking for and click "Recovery".

    File Recovery Software - Files List for Recovery

  7. Choose one of the methods for saving the files and recover them.

    Saving recovered files in Hetman Partition Recovery

How to open file with ".SPF" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo shadowProtect Full Backup File image file file?

Programs that open ".SPF" files

Windows
StorageCraft Technology ShadowProtect StorageCraft Technology ShadowProtect
VMware vCenter Converter VMware vCenter Converter

Additional Information

  • File type: ShadowProtect Full Backup File

  • File extension: .SPF

  • Developer: StorageCraft Technology

  • Category: Backup Files

  • Format: Binary

  • Mime-type: application/octet-stream

  • HEX: 53 50 46 49 00

  • File types that use the extension .SPF:

    • ShadowProtect Full Backup File

    • Slingplayer Favorites File

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 15:05 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .SPF files after deleting, cleaning or formatting!
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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What are some common reasons for encountering problems when trying to open .SPF files?

    There can be several reasons for encountering problems when trying to open .SPF files:

    1. Incompatible software: .SPF files are usually associated with specific software applications. If you don't have the appropriate software installed or if you are using an incompatible version, you may face difficulties in opening the file.
    2. Corrupted file: If the .SPF file is corrupted or damaged, it may not open properly. This can happen due to various reasons like incomplete downloads, file transfer errors, or storage issues.
    3. Incorrect file association: If the file extension (.SPF) is not properly associated with the corresponding software, your computer may not recognize it as a valid file type and fail to open it.
    4. Outdated software: If you are using an outdated version of the software associated with .SPF files, it may lack compatibility with newer file formats, leading to opening issues.
    5. File compatibility: .SPF files may not be compatible with all operating systems. If you are trying to open the file on an incompatible OS, it may result in errors.
    6. Missing dependencies: Some .SPF files may require additional software or plugins to be installed in order to open them. If these dependencies are missing, you may face problems when trying to open the file.
    7. File conversion issues: If the .SPF file was created or saved in a different software version or platform, it may not be fully compatible with your current software, causing errors during opening.

    To resolve these problems, you can try updating the software, ensuring file compatibility, repairing or redownloading the file, checking file associations, or seeking support from the software developer.

  • Are there any specific software or tools that can be used to fix issues with opening .SPF files?

    Yes, there are specific software or tools that can be used to fix issues with opening .SPF files. Here are a few options:

    1. SolidWorks: .SPF files are associated with SolidWorks software, so if you are facing issues opening these files, you can try using the latest version of SolidWorks or SolidWorks Viewer. These tools are specifically designed to open and view SolidWorks files, including .SPF files.
    2. CAD Exchanger: CAD Exchanger is a multi-CAD viewer and converter that supports various file formats, including .SPF files. It allows you to open, view, and convert .SPF files to other formats like STEP, IGES, or STL.
    3. Online file conversion services: There are several online file conversion services available that can help you convert .SPF files to other formats. These services often provide options to fix file compatibility issues during the conversion process.
    4. Third-party CAD software: Some third-party CAD software, such as AutoCAD, may also have support for opening .SPF files. You can try using these software tools to open and view .SPF files.

    It's important to note that the specific software or tool you choose may depend on the nature of the .SPF file and your requirements.

  • Can you provide step-by-step instructions on how to troubleshoot and resolve problems related to opening .SPF files?

    Sure! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to troubleshoot and resolve problems related to opening .SPF files:

    Step 1: Verify the File Extension

    Make sure that the file you are trying to open has the .SPF file extension. Sometimes, file extensions can be hidden or changed, causing confusion. Double-check the file extension to ensure it is .SPF.

    Step 2: Identify the Software Associated with .SPF Files

    Determine the software that is typically used to open .SPF files. This information can usually be found by searching online or referring to the software's documentation. Common software associated with .SPF files include Sound Forge Project File, SlingPlayer Firmware File, and Serif PhotoPlus File.

    Step 3: Update or Install the Appropriate Software

    If you don't have the necessary software installed on your computer, download and install it from the official website. Ensure that you are using the latest version of the software to avoid compatibility issues. If you already have the software installed, check for updates and install them if available.

    Step 4: Restart Your Computer

    After installing or updating the software, restart your computer. This step helps to refresh the system and ensures that any changes made during the installation process are properly applied.

    Step 5: Attempt to Open the .SPF File Again

    Once your computer has restarted, try opening the .SPF file again. Right-click on the file, select "Open With," and choose the appropriate software from the list. If the file opens successfully, the problem is resolved.

    Step 6: Check for File Corruption

    If you still encounter issues opening the .SPF file, it might be corrupted. Try opening other files with the same software to verify if the problem is specific to this particular file. If other files open without any problems, it is likely that the .SPF file is corrupted.

    Step 7: Restore from Backup or Obtain a New Copy

    If the .SPF file is corrupted, attempt to restore it from a backup if you have one available. If not, try obtaining a new copy of the file from its original source. Contact the file's creator or search for alternative sources to obtain an uncorrupted version.

    Step 8: Contact Software Support

    If none of the above steps resolve the issue, reach out to the software's support team for further assistance. They can provide specific troubleshooting steps or offer guidance on how to open or repair .SPF files using their software.

    By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve problems related to opening .SPF files.
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