MCO File Extension

What is MCO file?

Full format name of files that use MCO extension is Live Messenger Winks Format. Live Messenger Winks Format format was developed by Microsoft. Files with MCO extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. Files with MCO extension are categorized as Misc Files files. The Misc Files subset comprises 6033 various file formats. Windows Live Messenger is by far the most used program for working with MCO files. On the official website of Microsoft Corporation developer not only will you find detailed information about theWindows Live Messenger software, but also about MCO and other supported file formats.

Programs which support MCO file extension

Programs that can handle MCO files are as follows. Files with MCO 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.

How to open file with MCO extension?

Being unable to open files with MCO extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Live Messenger Winks 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 MCO files.

Step 1. Get the Windows Live Messenger

Problems with opening and working with MCO files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with MCO files being present on your machine. The solution to this problem is very simple. Download Windows Live Messenger and install it on your device. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support MCO files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. The safest method of downloading Windows Live Messenger installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of Windows Live Messenger and update if needed

If the problems with opening MCO files still occur even after installing Windows Live Messenger, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Windows Live Messenger is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that Windows Live Messenger cannot handle files with MCO may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of Windows Live Messenger is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Windows Live Messenger to MCO files

If you have the latest version of Windows Live Messenger installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage MCO on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the MCO file and choose Open with option
• 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 Windows Live Messenger installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open MCO files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the MCO file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Windows Live Messenger and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with MCO extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

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

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the MCO file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the MCO file for viruses or malware

If the MCO is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the MCO file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. MCO file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

Did you receive the MCO file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with MCO extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

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

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with MCO extension. In this case close the other applications.

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 Live Messenger Winks Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle MCO files.

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