How to open DEX files? 4 simple methods of solving such problems
When you encounter a problem with an unknown DEX file and you do not know how to open such file, the first step you should take is to determine the cause of given problem. We will show you how to address most common problems with DEX files and how to solve them in 4 simple steps.
DEX File Extension
- File type Dalvik Executable Format
- File developer Google
- File category Developer Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) DEX file?
The DEX file format (Dalvik Executable Format) is a container for compiled programs written for the Android platform. It is optimized for use in mobile devices and lower resource devices such as televisions, set-top boxes, and car stereos. It stores the compiled code and resources required to run applications. DEX files can be created from the Java programming language using the Dalvik Virtual Machine and the Android SDK.
DEX files are used by the Android operating system to execute applications. They are optimized for mobile devices by storing data efficiently with One Instruction Multiple Data (OIMD) technology and they also use compressed symbolic references which takes up less memory than regular references.
How to open DEX file?
In some cases problems may occur when trying to open DEX files. Steps listed below can be helpful in addressing such problems.
Step 1 – Verify whether the file is properly associated with selected software
The first thing user should do is to associate application with DEX files. It may happen so that even when an application that supports DEX files is installed on the system it is not properly associated with this file format. This can be easily remedied by associating program with DEX files. In order to associate such files with given application, user must open the file menu (by right-clicking on the file) and choosing "Open with". A list of suggested applications will be displayed at the top part of menu. Next, select an application and confirm your choice by checking "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" option. Confirm your selection by clicking OK.
In order to open DEX file, focus on steps 1 and 2
In majority of cases following instruction in step 1 and 2 should be enough to open files with DEX extension. Before attempting the next steps, test all the programs listed below.
Step 2 – Install a program that supports DEX files
Should it happen that the section with suggested programs is empty, it is most probable that no program supporting DEX files is installed on the system. Choose a program from the following list and install it:
Programs that support files with DEX extension
Step 3 – Check for other possible causes of errors
- Corrupted storage medium on which the DEX file is stored
- File data corruption or incompleteness (for example, due to incomplete download or copy process). In such case the file must be re-downloaded or properly copied and then opened again.
- Compatibility issues – check whether DEX extension is compatible with user’s operating system
- Administrative policy settings may prevent user from opening given file
Step 4 – Contact an expert
If you are still unable to open DEX file, you should contact an IT expert. You could also try to contact the developer of given software that supports DEX files. Appropriate website addresses can be found by clicking the name of given program in the list above.
