TARGETS File Extension

What is TARGETS file?

TARGETS filename suffix is mostly used for MSBuild Targets Format files. Microsoft defined the MSBuild Targets Format format standard. TARGETS file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Windows system platform. TARGETS file format, along with 1205 other file formats, belongs to the Developer Files category. The most popular software that supports TARGETS files is Microsoft Visual Studio. Microsoft Visual Studio software was developed by Microsoft Corporation, and on its official website you may find more information about TARGETS files or the Microsoft Visual Studio software program.

Programs which support TARGETS file extension

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

Being unable to open files with TARGETS extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to MSBuild Targets 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. Download and install Microsoft Visual Studio

Problems with opening and working with TARGETS files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with TARGETS files being present on your machine. To address this issue, go to the Microsoft Visual Studio developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy 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 Microsoft Visual Studio website and download the installer.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft Visual Studio and update if needed

You still cannot access TARGETS files although Microsoft Visual Studio 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 Microsoft Visual Studio installed, it may not support TARGETS 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 Microsoft Visual Studio.

Step 3. Associate MSBuild Targets Format files with Microsoft Visual Studio

If you have the latest version of Microsoft Visual Studio installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage TARGETS on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

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

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the TARGETS file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select Microsoft Visual Studio and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with TARGETS extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the TARGETS is not faulty

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 TARGETS file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the TARGETS file for viruses or malware

If the TARGETS is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the TARGETS file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the TARGETS file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

If you obtained the problematic TARGETS 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. If the TARGETS file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. 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 systems has insufficient resources to open TARGETS files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with MSBuild Targets Format 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 TARGETS files affecting older versions of given software.

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