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How to convert an .asf bank or store video to MP4

Surveillance video from a bank, store or gas station sometimes arrives as an .asf file. Some play right away; some don't play anywhere.

What an .asf file is

.asf is a Microsoft video container, and turns up in some older surveillance recorders. Windows Media Player plays many of them. A Mac needs another player, and some recorders put video inside the .asf that even common players don't recognize.

Ways to play or convert it

  1. Try VLC. VLC is a free player for Mac and Windows. If it plays the file, it can also save an MP4: File › Convert / Stream on a Mac, Media › Convert / Save on Windows.
  2. If VLC shows a black screen or an error, the video inside uses the recorder maker's own encoding. Look for a player program delivered with the video, or ask for an MP4 or AVI export:

    Produce <file name> as an MP4 or AVI export from the agency's video system, with the original date and time shown on the video.

  3. Convert it. LexProxy members can turn an .asf file into an MP4 with the Video Converter, below.

For LexProxy members

The easy option: the Video Converter

LexProxy members who are verified Georgia attorneys get the Video Converter free. Upload the file, download the MP4. It takes .qbx (Flashback dashcam), .asf, .avi, .ts, .3gp, .mkv, .wmv, and HEVC .mov and .mp4.

Both files are deleted an hour after you download. LexProxy never stores the video. The converter runs on LexPhone and opens from your LexProxy dashboard.

Request an Invite

Already a member? Sign in and open the Video Converter from your dashboard.

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