MSHA file icon

MSHA File Extension

Microsoft Help Asset Format

What is MSHA file?

MSHA filename suffix is mostly used for Microsoft Help Asset Format files. Microsoft Help Asset Format specification was created by Microsoft. Files with MSHA extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. Files with MSHA extension are categorized as Developer Files files. The Developer Files subset comprises 1205 various file formats. Microsoft Visual Studio supports MSHA files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 4 other tools may also be used. Software named Microsoft Visual Studio was created by Microsoft Corporation. In order to find more detailed information on the software and MSHA files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support MSHA file extension

The following listing features MSHA-compatible programs. MSHA files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Programs that support MSHA file

How to open file with MSHA extension?

Problems with accessing MSHA may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with MSHA files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with MSHA files.

Step 1. Get the Microsoft Visual Studio

Install software to open MSHA file Problems with opening and working with MSHA files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with MSHA files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Visual Studio or one of the recommended programs (for example, FAR, Windows Notepad, MSHC Migration Utility) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading Microsoft Visual Studio installed is by going to developer’s website (Microsoft Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft Visual Studio and update if needed

Update software that support file extension MSHAIf the problems with opening MSHA files still occur even after installing Microsoft Visual Studio, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Visual Studio is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of Microsoft Visual Studio installed, it may not support MSHA format. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Microsoft Visual Studio.

Step 3. Set the default application to open MSHA files to Microsoft Visual Studio

If you have the latest version of Microsoft Visual Studio installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage MSHA on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Associate software with MSHA file on Windows

Change the default application in Windows

  • Right-click the MSHA file and choose Open with option
  • Select Choose another app → More apps
  • Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Microsoft Visual Studio is installed, check the Always use this app to open MSHA files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button
Associate software with MSHA file on Mac

Change the default application in Mac OS

  • Right-click the MSHA file and select Information
  • Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
  • Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
  • Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with MSHA extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Check the MSHA for errors

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

Check MSHA file for viruses
1. Verify that the MSHA in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the MSHA 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 MSHA file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic MSHA file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. 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 MSHA file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

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 Help Asset Format file.

4. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft Visual Studio

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

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Microsoft Help Asset Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle MSHA files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the MSHA file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on MSHA file.

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