VDX File Extension

What is VDX file?

Files with the VDX extension belong to the category of drawing files.

What do VDX files contain?

VDX file contents include drawings, diagrams, or charts created using a Microsoft application named Visio. This application is used for creating block diagrams in business, engineering, and architectural solutions. Within the files with the VDX extension, one can distinguish:

• diagram templates,
• block scheme elements,
• metadata,
• descriptions and notes,
• author information.

Files with the VDX extension are saved using the syntax of the XML language.

What are VDX files used for?

The primary use of files with the VDX extension is the distribution of diagrams and schemas generated in Microsoft Visio. VDX files can be freely copied to external media or the Cloud. Smaller projects, after prior compression, are sent as email attachments. Utilizing XML language in VDX files has added new functionalities to traditional drawings. These include comments or additional descriptions. Moreover, this is the fundamental difference between files with the VDX extension and VDS, which also store projects generated in Microsoft Visio but in binary form.

Programs which support VDX file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support VDX files. VDX files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 03/25/2024

How to open file with VDX extension?

Problems with accessing VDX may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with VDX 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 VDX files.

Step 1. Install Visio 2010 software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports VDX files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Visio 2010 or one to the listed programs: ConceptDraw PRO, VSD Viewer. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support VDX files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Visio 2010 website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update Visio 2010 to the latest version

If the problems with opening VDX files still occur even after installing Visio 2010, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Visio 2010 is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why VDX files are not compatible with Visio 2010. The most recent version of Visio 2010 is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open VDX files to Visio 2010

After installing Visio 2010 (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open VDX files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the VDX 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 Visio 2010 installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open VDX files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected VDX 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 VDX extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the VDX is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the VDX file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the VDX file for viruses or malware

If the VDX is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. VDX file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If the VDX file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. If the VDX 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 out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Visio Drawing XML Format file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Visio 2010

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

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Visio Drawing XML Format files. It may be the case that the VDX files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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