MSM File Extension

What is MSM file?

Full format name of files that use MSM extension is Windows Installer Merge Module. Windows Installer Merge Module specification was created by Microsoft. MSM files are supported by software applications available for devices running Windows. Files with MSM extension are categorized as Settings Files files. The Settings Files subset comprises 1305 various file formats. Microsoft Visual Studio supports MSM files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 1 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 MSM files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support MSM file extension

The following listing features MSM-compatible programs. Files with MSM 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 MSM extension?

Being unable to open files with MSM extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with MSM files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Microsoft Visual Studio

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports MSM files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Visual Studio or different compatible program, such as Windows Installer XML. 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 Microsoft Visual Studio installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Visual Studio to the latest version

If you already have Microsoft Visual Studio installed on your systems and MSM files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that Microsoft Visual Studio cannot handle files with MSM may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Microsoft Visual Studio should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Windows Installer Merge Module files with Microsoft Visual Studio

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate MSM files with latest version of Microsoft Visual Studio you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the MSM file
• 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 Microsoft Visual Studio installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open MSM files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

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

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

1. Check the MSM file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the MSM is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the MSM file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. MSM file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with MSM extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic MSM file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with MSM extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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 MSM extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Windows Installer Merge Module files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with MSM files affecting older versions of given software.

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