What is an ARO file?
An ARO file is a server side web page file that is generated with SteelArrow Web Application. It contains HTML and SteelArrow tags and scripts. These are executed on server to generate complete response page before sending these to user’s browser. ARO files contain almost 95% of HTML content while the remaining consists of SteelArrow code. For ARO files to work for you, SteelArrow Web Applications server should be installed and running on the web server machine.
ARO File Format
ARO files are written in HTML markup language file with embedded JavaScript code and Java applets. SteelArrow tags are the basic building blocks for development of web pages. Though these don’t change the display of the page, they are used to fill the page with data. In addition, they may also be used to control the output with conditional statements.
Primary Purpose and Association
ARO files are intrinsically linked to Steganos software, particularly their VPN and security products. They are not generic archive files like ZIP or RAR, but rather proprietary, application-specific containers. Their main function is to hold encrypted backup data for software settings, license information, or user preferences. This ensures that if you reinstall the software or move to a new device, you can restore your configuration seamlessly and securely.
Encryption and Security
A cornerstone feature of the ARO format is its robust encryption. Steganos is renowned for its focus on privacy, and the ARO file embodies this principle. The contents are typically protected using strong encryption algorithms (like AES), making them inaccessible without the correct password or original software. This prevents unauthorized users from extracting or reading the stored data, even if they gain access to the file itself.
Key Characteristics of the ARO File Format
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| File Extension | .aro |
| Proprietary and Closed Format | The ARO format is owned and defined by Steganos. Its technical specifications are not publicly documented, making it reliant on its native software for access. |
| Security-First Design | Built with encryption as a default, not an option. This ensures data confidentiality is maintained at the file level. |
| Application-Specific Utility | Its value is exclusively tied to functioning within the Steganos ecosystem. It has no purpose as a general-purpose compression or archive format. |
| Configuration-Oriented | It is designed to store meta-data and settings, not user-created content, making it a crucial component for software portability and recovery. |
| Non-Interoperable | Due to its proprietary and encrypted nature, ARO files cannot be used with other VPN or security software, locking the data into the Steganos environment. |
ARO Tag Example
The ARO tag lets developers to output data values at any place within a script. For example, it can be used to get the output of the PARAM table with that can be displayed within the HTML tag.
FAQ
Q1: Can I open an ARO file without Steganos software?
A: No, ARO files are encrypted and proprietary, requiring the specific Steganos application that created them for proper access.
Q2: What should I do if I lose the password to my ARO file?
A: The data within is likely irrecoverable due to strong encryption; always store your backup passwords in a secure password manager.
Q3: Is an ARO file the same as a virus or malware?
A: No, the ARO format itself is legitimate, but like any file, it can be disguised by malware; only open files from trusted sources.
Q4: Can I convert an ARO file to a ZIP file?
A: There is no standard conversion process, as ARO is a specialized encrypted container, not a standard archive format.
Q5: Why did my Steganos software create an ARO file?
A: It was likely created during a backup or export operation to securely save your program settings and configuration.
