Buffer file
File type: Temporary file
A buf file is a temporary buffer file created by an application. It stores data held in a program buffer while the program is working with it.
File type category:
Temporary file
Date updated: October 12, 2026
The buf file extension is used for temporary buffer data by more than one program, including SQL*Plus and GNU Emacs. The file contains application-specific data from a buffer and is intended to support the program that created it.
Because the format depends on the creating program, a buf file is not generally a standalone document. After the associated program has been closed and any needed data has been saved, an unneeded buf file can usually be deleted safely.
Temporary buf files are generally not meant to be opened directly. Open them with the program that created them, such as SQL*Plus or GNU Emacs, if that program provides a way to load its buffer data.
If the creating program is unknown, there is no universal application that can reliably open the file.
A buf file usually cannot be converted reliably because its contents and structure depend on the program that created it. If it contains data that needs to be retained, open it in the associated program and use that program's save or export function.
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