CHM is a Windows Help module file. CHM file stores help documents for system function or applications. CHM documents use HTML, the same format which is used for creating websites. CHM documents files are compiled into a single file. CHM files can be viewed using CHM readers or other dedicated tools. Some CHM files can be viewed using a web browser. Help documents can also be opened directly from the application menu, which in turn opens the document using an external tool.
Help files contain software documentation. A typical CHM file is divided into sections organized in a tree-like structure. Such files contain information about application usage and its features. CHM files commonly included a FAQ section that lists some of the frequently asked questions with answers. CHM files are portable.
Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open CHM files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with CHM 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: 06/16/2022
Problems with accessing CHM may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Compiled HTML Help Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with CHM files.
The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening CHM files is that no program that can handle CHM files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing xCHM or different compatible program, such as WinCHM, PowerCHM, ChmDecompiler. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit xCHM website and download the installer.
If the problems with opening CHM files still occur even after installing xCHM, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of xCHM is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that xCHM cannot handle files with CHM may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of xCHM should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.
If you have the latest version of xCHM installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage CHM on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent
Change the default application in Windows
Change the default application in Mac OS
Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the CHM file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.
Should it happed that the CHM is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the CHM file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.
If you obtained the problematic CHM file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the CHM file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.
Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Compiled HTML Help Format file again.
If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with CHM extension. In this case close the other applications.
Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Compiled HTML Help Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle CHM files.
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