I cannot open a VHDX 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 VHDX files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening VHDX will be resolved!
VHDX File Extension
- File type Windows 8 Virtual Hard Drive Format
- File developer Microsoft
- File category Disk Image Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) VHDX file?
The .VHDX disk image file is an extension of the .VHD format specific to Windows 8 and Windows Server 8. The newer version not only allows 16 TB of data to be saved, but also is more efficient, has better protection against data corruption, and allows virtual machines to run.
How to open VHDX file?
If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with VHDX 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 VHDX files
After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open VHDX files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:
Programs that support VHDX files
Step 2. Verify whether VHDX files are associated with appropriate software
It is possible that an application that supports VHDX files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with VHDX 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 VHDX 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 VHDX files with the selected program.
Changing VHDX file association in registry
File association for VHDX 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 VHDX file for other errors
- VHDX file was not copied properly from storage medium.
- Antivirus application prevents opening VHDX files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected VHDX file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
- For VHDX 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.
