How to Convert Swf to Flash Video

by Arn Goldman
SWFs are usually web-based animations.

SWFs are usually web-based animations.

role of film image by Slobodan Djajic from Fotolia.com

The SWF extension, pronounced "Swiff," is a creation of Macromedia and now owned by Adobe. SWFs are animations designed for use in Adobe's Flash software. The FLV extension, short for Flash Video, is a video format designed for compatibility with the Flash Internet plug-in. SWFs are typically animations, while FLVs are more often videos or pieces of interactive content. FLVs are playable in more players than SWFs, so converting between the formats will increase compatibility.

Using Mediaconverter.org

Step 1

Navigate to mediaconverter.org in your favorite browser.

Step 2

Click the "Upload a file" link on the homepage and choose the SWF you want to convert to FLV. The name of the file will be displayed in "Selected Files."

Step 3

Choose "FLV" as the output extension. Click "Start" to initiate the conversion.

Step 4

Click on the link that displays after the conversion is done to download the FLV.

Using Zamzar.com

Step 1

Open Zamzar.com in your preferred web browser (see Resources).

Step 2

Click the "Choose File" button and locate the SWF on your hard drive.

Step 3

Select "FLV" in the drop-down menu. Indicate the email address to which you wish the file to be sent.

Step 4

Click "Convert." Once Zamzar finishes, you'll receive a message with a link to your converted file.

About the Author

Arn Goldman is a recent liberal arts grad interested in all things culture, both high and low. He writes about entertainment, tech and sports. Goldman received his B.A. in English and philosophy in 2009 and has written for eHow, Trails Travel and Answerbag.

Photo Credits

  • role of film image by Slobodan Djajic from Fotolia.com