HXS File Extension

What is HXS file?

HXS is a file extension commonly associated with Help 2 Compiled Help Format files. Help 2 Compiled Help Format specification was created by Microsoft. HXS file format is compatible with software that can be installed on system platform. HXS file format, along with 303 other file formats, belongs to the Web Files category. Microsoft Help supports HXS files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 4 other tools may also be used.

Programs which support HXS file extension

HXS files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

How to open file with HXS extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening HXS files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with HXS 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. Install Microsoft Help software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports HXS files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Help or different compatible program, such as Web browser, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Visual Studio. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download Microsoft Help installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Microsoft Help

If you already have Microsoft Help installed on your systems and HXS files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Microsoft Help cannot handle files with HXS may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Microsoft Help should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Help 2 Compiled Help Format files with Microsoft Help

After installing Microsoft Help (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open HXS files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the HXS with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Microsoft Help is installed, check the Always use this app to open HXS files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the HXS file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Microsoft Help and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with HXS extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the HXS for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper HXS file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

Should it happed that the HXS is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. HXS file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with HXS extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the HXS file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. 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. It could happen the the download process of file with HXS extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Help 2 Compiled Help Format file.

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

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

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Help 2 Compiled Help Format files. It may be the case that the HXS files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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