1. CHK File Extension
2. What is a(n) CHK file?
3. How to open CHK file?

3.1 Download and install application that supports CHK files
1. 3.1.1 Programs that support CHK files
3.2 Verify whether CHK files are associated with appropriate software
3.3 Check CHK file for other errors

4. Similar file extensions

CHK File Extension

File type ScanDisk Format Fragment
File developer Microsoft
File category Misc Files
File popularity rating

What is a(n) CHK file?

CHK (ScanDisk Format Fragment) is a type of file that is created by the Windows ScanDisk utility. It is used as a temporary storage of files and folders whose integrity has been compromised by some means. This makes it possible for ScanDisk to recover the intact part of the file and repair any damage caused. CHK files usually have a .chk extension, and the data stored inside them is encoded with an encoding scheme known as "Finder Flag".

The basic structure of a CHK file includes a file signature at the beginning, followed by an index, which contains information about the location and size of each fragment. It also contains metadata about the original file, such as date and time of creation, as well as the name and path of the originating folder. The data for each fragmentation is stored in a series of identifiers starting with the letter "D", followed by numerical data for the individual fragment.

How to open CHK file?

If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with CHK extension, it is highly probable that no program that supports given files is installed on the users’ system. Below is a list of actions user should pursue in order to resolve most common problems.

Step 1. Download and install application that supports CHK files

After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open CHK files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:

Programs that support CHK files

Windows

Step 2. Verify whether CHK files are associated with appropriate software

It is possible that an application that supports CHK files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with CHK files (right-click on the file icon → Properties → General Tab → In submenu "Open with" and click on "Change" button. System will display a list of suggested programs that support CHK files. Choose the application by checking the box "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files". System will store this information in its registry and use it to open CHK files with the selected program.

Changing CHK file association in registry

File association for CHK files can be edited manually by editing appropriate entry in Windows System Registry. However, it is discouraged as it may introduce errors to registry if not done properly and may even damage the system.

Step 3. Check CHK file for other errors

CHK file was not copied properly from storage medium.
Antivirus application prevents opening CHK files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected CHK file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
For CHK files downloaded from the internet it is advised to check if the file has been downloaded completely and is not corrupted. If not, the file should be re-downloaded.

Similar file extensions

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