MSHC File Extension

What is MSHC file?

MSHC is a file extension commonly associated with Microsoft Help Container Format files. Microsoft Help Container Format specification was created by Microsoft. Files with MSHC extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. Files with MSHC extension are categorized as Developer Files files. The Developer Files subset comprises 1205 various file formats. The most popular program for handling MSHC files is FAR, but users can choose among 3 different programs that support this file format.

Programs which support MSHC file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support MSHC files. Files with MSHC suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with MSHC extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening MSHC files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with MSHC 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 MSHC files.

Step 1. Get the FAR

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening MSHC files is that no program that can handle MSHC files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select FAR or one of the recommended programs (for example, Microsoft Windows Help, Microsoft Windows zip utility, 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. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit FAR website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of FAR and update if needed

If the problems with opening MSHC files still occur even after installing FAR, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of FAR is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that FAR cannot handle files with MSHC may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of FAR should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Microsoft Help Container Format files with FAR

If you have the latest version of FAR installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage MSHC 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.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the MSHC 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 FAR is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open MSHC files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with MSHC extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with MSHC extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the MSHC 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 MSHC file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

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

If the MSHC is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the MSHC file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the MSHC 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. If the MSHC 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 Container Format file.

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

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with MSHC 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 Microsoft Help Container Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle MSHC files.

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