3 steps to open file with WDB extension
Usually solving problems with WDB file is simple – just install proper software and open the file. Read the guide and open WDB file now!
WDB File Extension
- File type Microsoft Works Database
- File developer Microsoft
- File category Database Files
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File popularity rating
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What is a(n) WDB file?
The WDB (Microsoft Works Database) file format is a database format used by Microsoft Works word processors, spreadsheets, and database programs. The format was initially designed in 1989 to store collections of data in the form of tables, which are then used for indexing, sorting, and reporting the stored information. The file contains records consisting of fields and values that represent each record, such as name, address, phone number, and so on.
The WDB file format is proprietary and is not compatible with other applications besides those of Microsoft Works. It can be opened directly in the Microsoft Works software suite or Microsoft Access, while other programs may require the file to be converted first.
How to open WDB file?
There could be multiple reasons for which the system does not support given file. In the case of WDB extension, it is probable that none of the installed programs support given file type. Therefore, user should undertake the following steps
Step 1: Install a program that supports WDB files
If an application that supports WDB files is installed on user’s system, but is not used to open such files by default, right-click on the file icon and choose "Open with" option from the menu. Next, select the proper application and check the "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files" box. The system will store this information in its registry and use the selected program to open files with WDB extension by default.
Hint for Mac OS users
For Mac OS users the procedure is analogous – open the file menu by right-clicking on the WDB file and choose "Information" option and select "Open with program" option. From the submenu select an application and click on "Change all" button.
Step 2: Find and download proper software
Inability to open WDB files may also be related to the lack of any application that supports given file being installed on the system. Should that be the case, user needs to download and install one of the following applications. Once installed, the system will automatically associate newly installed application with WDB files. If this step fails, see step 1.
Programs that support files with WDB extension
Step 3: Check the WDB file for errors
Sometimes, although relatively rarely, steps 1 and 2 might not lead to expected results. There can be several reasons for such situation to occur:
- WDB file has been downloaded from the internet but for some reason it is incomplete. In such case the file should be re-downloaded and opened again.
- Structure of given WDB file could be corrupted and as such the program is not able to open the file
- Storage medium on which the file was stored is damaged
- It is important to ascertain that the icon representing given file is not a shortcut a related WDB file no longer present in the location to which the shortcut points
- If the user account has restricted access privileges it is advised to contact the system administrator or an IT expert
