ASM File Extension

What is ASM file?

ASM files are associated with Assembler compilers.

What kind of data do ASM files contain?

ASM files store source code for application written in low-level programming language. This format stores data in plain text, which can be accessed using any text editor. However, dedicated editors are recommended for editing such files as they offer many helpful features such as line numbering, syntax highlighting, etc.

What is an Assembler?

Assembler (or assembly language) is a low-level programming language that works closely with the architecture’s machine code instructions. Assembly code is stored in ASM files. First assembler was created in the late 1940s. The language was highly popular until the 1980s (or 1990s depending on the architecture), when higher-level languages were introduced, such as C or Pascal. High-level programming languages offered a cleaner syntax and more intuitive programming interface, as well as significantly expanded functionality. Nevertheless, assemblers are still the language of choice when performance is critical. Assembly languages are used for writing malware or computer viruses that directly target CPUs and bypass many operating systems routines. Source code stored in ASM file must be compiled using a dedicated software program which converts it into executable code (for instance, an EXE file).

Programs which support ASM file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open ASM files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with ASM suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 01/26/2023

How to open file with ASM extension?

Being unable to open files with ASM extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with ASM files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Windows Notepad software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports ASM files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Windows Notepad or one to the listed programs: Text editor, Adobe ExtendScript, Microsoft Visual Studio. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Windows Notepad installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Windows Notepad to the latest version

If the problems with opening ASM files still occur even after installing Windows Notepad, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Windows Notepad is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of Windows Notepad installed, it may not support ASM format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Windows Notepad.

Step 3. Associate Assembler Source Code Format files with Windows Notepad

If you have the latest version of Windows Notepad installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage ASM on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the ASM file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Windows Notepad is installed, check the Always use this app to open ASM files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected ASM file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Windows Notepad and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with ASM extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the ASM file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the ASM file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the ASM file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the ASM file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the ASM file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the ASM file’s structure is intact

If the ASM file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the ASM file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Assembler Source Code Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Windows Notepad

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support ASM files. Close all running programs and try opening the ASM file.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Assembler Source Code Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle ASM files.

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