DSK File Extension

What is DSK file?

DSK file contains a disk image. DSK is a generic file extension, which means it is not native to any program and is not standardized. DSK file can store images of older diskettes, for example, 3.5-inch floppy disks, or modern HDD or SSD disks, mass storage devices, and flash cards. Data in DSK files can be compressed, encrypted, or protected with password. DSK image can be of the following type:

• Raw – 1:1, byte-by-byte disk copy,
• Logical – copy of disk contents as seen by the system file (logical volume),
• Partition – copy of part of given disk, for example, only user data files excluding system files.

Disk images are typically created to obtain a data backup copy, which can then be used to restore the data. RAW images are chiefly used in forensics to secure evidence. Because .DSK is a generic image format, file created in one program may not be compatible with another program, even if both program support DSK format. Using appropriate tools, DSK images can be mounted as virtual disks and used as normal disks attached to the computer. By mounting a disk image, users can access its contents.

Programs which support DSK file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support DSK files. DSK files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 03/18/2024

How to open file with DSK extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening DSK files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with DSK files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install WinImage software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening DSK files is that no program that can handle DSK files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install WinImage or one to the listed programs: PowerISO, IsoBuster, R-Studio. 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 WinImage website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update WinImage to the latest version

If the problems with opening DSK files still occur even after installing WinImage, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of WinImage is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why DSK files are not compatible with WinImage. The most recent version of WinImage is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open DSK files to WinImage

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

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the DSK with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where WinImage is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open DSK files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the DSK file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with DSK extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the DSK for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the DSK file in question. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. The DSK may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the DSK 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 scanner detected that the DSK file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

Did you receive the DSK file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the DSK file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

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 Disk Image file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run WinImage

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support DSK files. Close all running programs and try opening the DSK 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 Disk Image file. It may be the case that the DSK files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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