What is a .SWIDTAG file?
The .SWIDTAG file extension stands for "Software Identification Tag File." This type of file is crucial for managing software assets effectively, commonly known as Software Asset Management (SAM). A SWID Tag File contains important information about a software product in XML format. This information typically includes the software's name, its version, and details about whether the software is part of a software bundle.
These files are created by software publishers during the development and packaging of their applications. A SWID tag is not only created but also validated and digitally signed by the publisher to ensure its authenticity. When a user installs the software, the SWID tag is also installed, and it plays a role in the installation process by being validated by the installer tool. Conversely, when the software is uninstalled, the SWID tag is removed along with the software, helping to keep the system's software inventory up to date.
SWID tags are particularly useful in large networks where keeping track of all installed software and ensuring that software is up to date and secure is critical. They are used by various software programs, including popular ones like Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Cloud. After installation, SWIDTAG files are typically placed in a specific folder within the application data directory, named with a registration ID that reflects the software publisher and the software itself, such as "regid.1986-12.com.adobe" for Adobe Creative Cloud applications and "regid.1991-06.com.microsoft" for Microsoft Office applications.
To view or edit a .SWIDTAG file, you can use any text editor, as the file is formatted in plain text XML. This means that simple programs like Notepad on Windows, TextEdit on macOS, or any other basic text editing software can open, display, and allow modifications to the contents of a SWIDTAG file.
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