VBS File Extension

What is VBS file?

VBS is a text file that contains source code written in Visual Basic. VBS is an Windows executable file an thus should be treated with caution as it may contain some malicious code. VBS files are alternatively saved with VB or VBScript suffixes.

Visual Basic

Visual Basic is a programming language created by Microsoft. It is commonly used for creating scripts and macros for various applications. Visual Basic is based on BASIC language. The language is often avoided by programmers and developers as it is considered an inferior version of its predecessor, yet it is, surprisingly, widely used. The language is subject of many jokes and anecdotes.

Programs which support VBS file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open VBS files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. VBS files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 06/21/2022

How to open file with VBS extension?

Being unable to open files with VBS extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with VBS files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Visual Studio software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening VBS files is that no program that can handle VBS files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Visual Studio or one of the recommended programs (for example, Microsoft Windows, Adobe Dreamweaver, Microsoft WScript) 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. 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. Update Microsoft Visual Studio to the latest version

If you already have Microsoft Visual Studio installed on your systems and VBS files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of Microsoft Visual Studio installed, it may not support VBS format. The most recent version of Microsoft Visual Studio is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open VBS files to 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 VBS 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.

Change the default application in Windows

• Clicking the VBS 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
• 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 VBS files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the VBS file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Microsoft Visual Studio and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with VBS extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the VBS for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the VBS file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the VBS file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the VBS file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. VBS file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

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

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. 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 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 VBS 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 VBScript Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the VBS files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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