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How to open URL files? 4 simple methods of solving such problems

When you encounter a problem with an unknown URL 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 URL files and how to solve them in 4 simple steps.

  1. 1. URL File Extension
  2. 2. What is a(n) URL file?
  3. 3. How to open URL file?
    1. 3.1 Verify whether the file is properly associated with selected software
    2. 3.2 Install a program that supports URL files
      1. 3.2.1 Programs that support files with URL extension
    3. 3.3 Check for other possible causes of errors
    4. 3.4 Contact an expert
  4. 4. Similar file extensions

URL File Extension

File
  • File type Internet Shortcut
  • File developer N/A
  • File category Web Files
  • File popularity rating
    • Star
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What is a(n) URL file?

URL (Internet Shortcut) files are used primarily by Microsoft Windows. When clicked, they open a web page in the default browser. The URL file type is identified by the .url file extension. URL files share a similar structure to .htm and .html files but, instead of HTML code inside, there is only one line of plain-text containing the URL of the relevant website.

URL files are usually opened by double-clicking them in Windows Explorer. This action redirects you to the desired website. URL files can also be used to directly start a download from a web location. This is done by downloading the URL then drag & drop it onto an application designed to do so, such as Internet Download Manager.

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How to open URL file?

In some cases problems may occur when trying to open URL 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 URL files. It may happen so that even when an application that supports URL files is installed on the system it is not properly associated with this file format. This can be easily remedied by associating program with URL 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 URL file, focus on steps 1 and 2

Open

In majority of cases following instruction in step 1 and 2 should be enough to open files with URL extension. Before attempting the next steps, test all the programs listed below.

Step 2 – Install a program that supports URL files

Should it happen that the section with suggested programs is empty, it is most probable that no program supporting URL files is installed on the system. Choose a program from the following list and install it:

Programs that support files with URL extension

Windows programs
Windows
MAC OS programs
MAC OS

Step 3 – Check for other possible causes of errors

  • Corrupted storage medium on which the URL 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 URL 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 URL file, you should contact an IT expert. You could also try to contact the developer of given software that supports URL files. Appropriate website addresses can be found by clicking the name of given program in the list above.

Similar file extensions

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