I cannot open a OVF 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 OVF files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening OVF will be resolved!
OVF File Extension
- File type Open Virtualization Format
- File developer VMware
- File category Data Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) OVF file?
The OVF (Open Virtualization Format) is a platform-independent, open file format for distrubting virtual applications. This format allows for interchangeable vendor-independent virtual machines in production operations, making it a standard among industry organizations.
An OVF file includes all the necessary component files, including an image descriptor file, the virtual machine disk images, and any other resources needed for a virtualized environment. It is commonly used to package software for distribution, making it is highly useful for application developers and IT organizations.
How to open OVF file?
If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with OVF 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 OVF files
After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open OVF files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:
Programs that support OVF files
Step 2. Verify whether OVF files are associated with appropriate software
It is possible that an application that supports OVF files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with OVF 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 OVF 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 OVF files with the selected program.
Changing OVF file association in registry
File association for OVF 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 OVF file for other errors
- OVF file was not copied properly from storage medium.
- Antivirus application prevents opening OVF files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected OVF file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
- For OVF 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.
