PPK File Extension

What is PPK file?

Full format name of files that use PPK extension is PuTTY Private Key Format. PuTTY Private Key Format specification was created by PuTTY. PPK file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Windows system platform. PPK file format, along with 6033 other file formats, belongs to the Misc Files category. The most popular program for handling PPK files is PuTTY, but users can choose among 1 different programs that support this file format. PuTTY software was developed by Simon Tatham, and on its official website you may find more information about PPK files or the PuTTY software program.

Programs which support PPK file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support PPK files. Files with PPK extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

How to open file with PPK extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening PPK files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with PPK extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with PPK files.

Step 1. Get the PuTTY

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports PPK files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install PuTTY or one to the listed programs: PuTTYgen. 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 PuTTY installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Simon Tatham website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of PuTTY

If the problems with opening PPK files still occur even after installing PuTTY, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of PuTTY is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that PuTTY cannot handle files with PPK may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of PuTTY should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign PuTTY to PPK files

If you have the latest version of PuTTY installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage PPK on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the PPK with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the PuTTY installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open PPK files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the PPK 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
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with PPK extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the PPK for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the PPK file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The PPK may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the PPK 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 PPK file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

Did you receive the PPK 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. When downloading the file with PPK 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

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the PuTTY Private Key Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run PuTTY

If the systems has insufficient resources to open PPK files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with PuTTY Private Key Format file. It may be the case that the PPK files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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