3 steps to open file with CHM extension
Usually solving problems with CHM file is simple – just install proper software and open the file. Read the guide and open CHM file now!
CHM File Extension
- File type Compiled HTML Help Format
- File developer Microsoft
- File category Web Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) CHM file?
The CHM format is used to save compressed help documentation written in HTML. CHM files provide links, text and images. They are used by programs as help displayed in the web browser. Some CHM files need only the viewer to open, and some need a special CHM editor.
How to open CHM file?
There could be multiple reasons for which the system does not support given file. In the case of CHM extension, it is probable that none of the installed programs support given file type. Therefore, user should undertake the following steps
Step 1: Install a program that supports CHM files
If an application that supports CHM files is installed on user’s system, but is not used to open such files by default, right-click on the file icon and choose "Open with" option from the menu. Next, select the proper application and check the "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" box. The system will store this information in its registry and use the selected program to open files with CHM extension by default.
Hint for Mac OS users
For Mac OS users the procedure is analogous – open the file menu by right-clicking on the CHM file and choose "Information" option and select "Open with program" option. From the submenu select an application and click on "Change all" button.
Step 2: Find and download proper software
Inability to open CHM files may also be related to the lack of any application that supports given file being installed on the system. Should that be the case, user needs to download and install one of the following applications. Once installed, the system will automatically associate newly installed application with CHM files. If this step fails, see step 1.
Programs that support files with CHM extension
Step 3: Check the CHM file for errors
Sometimes, although relatively rarely, steps 1 and 2 might not lead to expected results. There can be several reasons for such situation to occur:
- CHM file has been downloaded from the internet but for some reason it is incomplete. In such case the file should be re-downloaded and opened again.
- Structure of given CHM file could be corrupted and as such the program is not able to open the file
- Storage medium on which the file was stored is damaged
- It is important to ascertain that the icon representing given file is not a shortcut a related CHM file no longer present in the location to which the shortcut points
- If the user account has restricted access privileges it is advised to contact the system administrator or an IT expert
