What is a BOK file?
A BOK file is a webpage file created by ProStores, once a popular web-based e-commerce platform that was later acquired by eBay. Like other webpages, BOK file contains dynamic content generated from the data available in the ProStores database. The BOK webpage is then hosted to the ProStores platform for listing products that are available to users for purchase. BOK page owners used to generate their store pages on ProStores and list the products for customers.
BOK files can be edited with eBay ProStores and opened in any web browser such as Chrome, Firefox, and Apple Safari.
BOK File Format
BOK files are saved as webpages that are generally in browser understandable file format such as HTML or PHP. The contents of these pages are loaded from the ProStores database at run time when some customer visits the storefront.
Key Characteristics of the BOK File Format
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| File Extension | .bok |
| Software-Specific Utility | Its sole purpose is to enable the functionality of a particular application, making it useless outside that environment. |
| Critical for Data Restoration | It is the essential “table of contents” without which restoring from a backup becomes a manual, often impossible, puzzle. |
| Non-Data-Containing | It stores pointers and metadata, not the actual user files, photos, or documents. The actual data resides in separate archive files. |
| Version-Sensitive | BOK files may become unreadable if the parent software is updated to a non-backward-compatible version, highlighting the need to maintain software consistency for critical backups. |
| Integral to Backup Management | It allows users to browse backup history, select specific file versions for restoration, and manage the backup lifecycle within the software’s interface. |
FAQ
Q1: Can I open a BOK file in Notepad or Word?
A: No, BOK files are binary and will appear as garbled characters; they require their native software (like Backup Maker) for proper access.
Q2: Is it safe to delete a BOK file?
A: Deleting a BOK file will likely make its associated backup archives unusable for managed restoration, as you lose the index to the data.
Q3: How do I open a BOK file?
A: You open it indirectly by launching the application that created it (e.g., Backup Maker) and using its “Restore” function to load the backup project.
Q4: Can I convert a BOK file to PDF or another format?
A: Direct conversion is not possible, as it is a proprietary catalog. The output would be the actual data files restored from the backup, which can then be saved in any format.
Q5: My backup software won’t recognize my BOK file. What’s wrong?
A: The file may be corrupted, or you might be using a different or incompatible version of the software. Ensure you’re using the correct program and version that created the file.
