CDF-MS File Extension

What is CDF-MS file?

CDF-MS is a manifest file that contains information and settings for program execution. Manifest files can be used for example for bypassing UAC checks. CDF-MS files are compiled and cannot be opened. CDF-MS files are typically used by ClickOnce web applications.

Role of manifest files

Compiled CDF-MS manifest file can be deployed faster than its XML or MANIFEST counterparts. An attempt to modify a manifest file can prevent the application form running properly. CDF-MS manifest file are typically named after the application the refer to (for example, application.EXE and application.exe.CDF-MS).

Programs which support CDF-MS file extension

Programs that can handle CDF-MS files are as follows. Files with CDF-MS extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 08/04/2022

How to open file with CDF-MS extension?

Being unable to open files with CDF-MS extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with CDF-MS extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the ClickOnce

Problems with opening and working with CDF-MS files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with CDF-MS files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install ClickOnce or one to the listed programs: Microsoft Visual Studio. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download ClickOnce installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update ClickOnce to the latest version

You still cannot access CDF-MS files although ClickOnce is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that ClickOnce cannot handle files with CDF-MS may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using ClickOnce.

Step 3. Assign ClickOnce to CDF-MS files

After installing ClickOnce (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open CDF-MS files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the CDF-MS file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the ClickOnce installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open CDF-MS files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected CDF-MS file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select ClickOnce and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with CDF-MS extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the CDF-MS file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the CDF-MS file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the CDF-MS in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the CDF-MS is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the CDF-MS file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. CDF-MS file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the CDF-MS file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic CDF-MS file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. If the CDF-MS 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. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the ClickOnce Compiled Manifest Format file again.

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

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

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with ClickOnce Compiled Manifest Format file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with CDF-MS files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

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