MPP File Extension

What is MPP file?

MPP files contain data stored with a specialised software for managing projects: Microsoft Project. Within MPP files, user can find such data as time axis, list of tasks, and other information about a project – thus they are a valuable support for project managers.

Functions of MPP files

MPP files, generated with MS Project, can be used within project teams, in order to:

• Manage task assignment,
• track and report progress,
• control finances,
• create schedules, etc..

MPP project files can be updated by different members of a given team. In order to minimise risk of an unauthorised access, the access privileges and blockades of specific information within the files, can be defined.

MPP files compatibility

In order to provide maximum compatibility of changes introduced by different members of a given team working on a project, it is advised to update Microsoft Project to its latest version. In case of using different versions of Microsoft Project, there may occur problems regarding proper read of modifications introduced by other users.

Programs which support MPP file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open MPP files divided into 4 categories according to system platform supported. MPP files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 10/31/2019

How to open file with MPP extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening MPP files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Microsoft Project 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 MPP files.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Project software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening MPP files is that no program that can handle MPP files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Project or different compatible program, such as RationalPlan, Housatonic Project Viewer, LiveProject Viewer. 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 Microsoft Project website and download the installer.

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

You still cannot access MPP files although Microsoft Project is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. 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 MPP files are not compatible with Microsoft Project. The latest version of Microsoft Project should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open MPP files to Microsoft Project

After installing Microsoft Project (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open MPP files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the MPP 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
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft Project installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open MPP files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected MPP file open the file menu and choose 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 MPP extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the MPP file is complete and free of 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 MPP file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the MPP in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the MPP 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. MPP file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

Did you receive the MPP 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. It could happen the the download process of file with MPP 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.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Microsoft Project Format file.

4. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft Project

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

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 Microsoft Project Format file. It may be the case that the MPP files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

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