1. WMA File Extension
2. What is a(n) WMA file?
3. How to open WMA file?

3.1 Download and install application that supports WMA files
1. 3.1.1 Programs that support WMA files
3.2 Verify whether WMA files are associated with appropriate software
3.3 Check WMA file for other errors

4. Similar file extensions

WMA File Extension

File type Windows Media Audio Format
File developer Microsoft
File category Audio Files
File popularity rating

What is a(n) WMA file?

The WMA (Windows Media Audio Format) is a type of audio file developed by Microsoft for Windows computers. It is part of the Windows Media family and offers high-quality digital audio in a smaller file size than other audio file types. It is also designed to stream over the Internet.

WMA files can be encoded with either lossy or lossless compression, allowing users to choose the type that suits their needs. Lossy compression provides files with a smaller file size, but a certain amount of sound quality is lost in the process. Lossless compression allows for sound that is indistinguishable from the original, but at the cost of larger file sizes.

How to open WMA file?

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

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

Programs that support WMA files

Windows

MAC OS

Linux

Android

iOS

OverDrive Media Console for iPhone

Windows Phone

OverDrive Media Console Phone

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

It is possible that an application that supports WMA files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with WMA 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 WMA 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 WMA files with the selected program.

Changing WMA file association in registry

File association for WMA 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 WMA file for other errors

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

Similar file extensions

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I cannot open a WMA file. What should I do? Help!