PKK file icon

PKK File Extension

PuTTYgen Private Key
  • Developer
    Simon Tatham
  • Category
  • Popularity
    4.5 (2 votes)

What is PKK file?

PKK is a file extension commonly associated with PuTTYgen Private Key files. Simon Tatham defined the PuTTYgen Private Key format standard. PKK files are supported by software applications available for devices running Windows. PKK file belongs to the Encoded Files category just like 236 other filename extensions listed in our database. PuTTY is by far the most used program for working with PKK files. On the official website of Simon Tatham developer not only will you find detailed information about thePuTTY software, but also about PKK and other supported file formats.

Programs which support PKK file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support PKK files. PKK files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Programs that support PKK file

Windows Windows

How to open file with PKK extension?

Problems with accessing PKK may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with PKK 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. Install PuTTY software

Install software to open PKK file The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports PKK files installed on the system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install PuTTY. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download PuTTY installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Simon Tatham website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update PuTTY to the latest version

Update software that support file extension PKKIf you already have PuTTY installed on your systems and PKK 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. This can be one of the causes why PKK files are not compatible with PuTTY. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using PuTTY.

Step 3. Assign PuTTY to PKK files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate PKK files with latest version of PuTTY you have installed 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 PKK file on Windows

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

  • Clicking the PKK 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
  • The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where PuTTY is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open PKK files and clicking OK.
Associate software with PKK file on Mac

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

  • Right-click the PKK file and select Information
  • Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
  • Select PuTTY and click Change for all...
  • If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with PKK extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

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

Check PKK file for viruses
1. Check the PKK file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the PKK is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the PKK file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If the PKK file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with PKK extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

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

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

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with PuTTYgen Private Key files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the PKK files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the PKK 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 PKK file.

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