I cannot open a MDE file. What should I do? Help!
Virtually anyone has encountered some problems with opening unknown files while working on a computer. It can be very frustrating. Yet such problems, not only with MDE files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening MDE will be resolved!
MDE File Extension
- File type Compiled Access Add-in Format
- File developer Microsoft
- File category Plugin Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) MDE file?
MDE (Compiled Access Add-in Format) is a format used in Microsoft Access to store binary applications and is based on the MDB (Microsoft Database) format. It is used as an optimization tool when creating applications by compressing and protecting the code in the MS Access database. All code is compiled into a single MDE file which is easier to distribute than multiple files.
MDE files are read-only and cannot be edited. Since they are compiled, they are usually optimized for better performance when compared with non-compiled databases. They also provide a layer of protection against changes being made to the database; MDE files cannot be viewed or edited without the source code.
How to open MDE file?
If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with MDE 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 MDE files
After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open MDE files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:
Programs that support MDE files
Step 2. Verify whether MDE files are associated with appropriate software
It is possible that an application that supports MDE files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with MDE 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 MDE 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 MDE files with the selected program.
Changing MDE file association in registry
File association for MDE 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 MDE file for other errors
- MDE file was not copied properly from storage medium.
- Antivirus application prevents opening MDE files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected MDE file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
- For MDE 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.
