MSHI File Extension

What is MSHI file?

MSHI filename suffix is mostly used for Microsoft Help Index Format files. Microsoft Help Index Format specification was created by Microsoft. Files with MSHI extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. MSHI file format, along with 1205 other file formats, belongs to the Developer Files category. FAR supports MSHI files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 2 other tools may also be used.

Programs which support MSHI file extension

The following listing features MSHI-compatible programs. MSHI 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 MSHI extension?

Being unable to open files with MSHI extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Microsoft Help Index Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install FAR software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports MSHI files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select FAR or one of the recommended programs (for example, Microsoft Windows Help, Microsoft Visual Studio) 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. If you want to download FAR installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update FAR to the latest version

You still cannot access MSHI files although FAR is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of FAR installed, it may not support MSHI 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 FAR.

Step 3. Set the default application to open MSHI files to 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 MSHI on your device. 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 MSHI 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 FAR is installed, check the Always use this app to open MSHI files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

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

Step 4. Ensure that the MSHI 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 MSHI file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the MSHI file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the MSHI file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the MSHI file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

Did you receive the MSHI 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 MSHI extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Microsoft Help Index Format file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle FAR

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with MSHI 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 Index Format files. It may be the case that the MSHI files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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