I cannot open a SGML 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 SGML files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening SGML will be resolved!

SGML File Extension

File
  • File type Standard Generalized Markup Language Format
  • File developer N/A
  • File category Data Files
  • File popularity rating
    • Star
    • Star
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How to open SGML file?

If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with SGML 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 SGML files

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

Programs that support SGML files

Linux programs
Linux

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

It is possible that an application that supports SGML files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with SGML files (right-click on the file icon → PropertiesGeneral Tab → In submenu "Open with" and click on "Change" button. System will display a list of suggested programs that support SGML 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 SGML files with the selected program.

Changing SGML file association in registry

File association for SGML 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 SGML file for other errors

  • SGML file was not copied properly from storage medium.
  • Antivirus application prevents opening SGML files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected SGML file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
  • For SGML 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.

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