VHDX File Extension

What is VHDX file?

VHDX file format is a virtual disk image file, new version of the VHD format. It is a format supported by Windows 8 and Windows Server 8 operating systems.

What does VHDX file contain?

VHDX file can be used to store all the data from a single hard disk drive, an operating system, or files or folders selected by the user. VHDX image file therefore can be used as a physical hard disk device because it contains an exact copy of the files and data file structure of original disk in the form of a single file image.

Advantages over VHD file format

VHDX format offers some important advantages to its older VHD counterpart. One of the biggest advantages is the extended maximum capacity of 64 TB in contrast to 16 TB size limit of the older version. The newer format offers improved virtualization performance on volumes with large logical sectors due to optimization in dynamic volume structure. Another important feature is the addition of data loss and corruption prevention mechanism.

Programs which support VHDX file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support VHDX files. Files with VHDX suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 03/30/2023

How to open file with VHDX extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening VHDX files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Windows 8 Virtual Hard Drive 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. Get the Microsoft Windows

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening VHDX files is that no program that can handle VHDX files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Microsoft Windows or different compatible program, such as Microsoft Windows Server, Microsoft Windows 8, Hyper-V. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support VHDX 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 Microsoft Windows website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Windows to the latest version

If the problems with opening VHDX files still occur even after installing Microsoft Windows, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Windows is available. 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 VHDX files are not compatible with Microsoft Windows. 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 Windows.

Step 3. Set the default application to open VHDX files to Microsoft Windows

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate VHDX files with latest version of Microsoft Windows you have installed 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

• Right-click the VHDX file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Microsoft Windows is installed, check the Always use this app to open VHDX files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected VHDX file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Microsoft Windows and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with VHDX extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the VHDX for 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 VHDX file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the VHDX file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. VHDX file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If you obtained the problematic VHDX 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 VHDX 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.

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 Windows

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

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 Windows 8 Virtual Hard Drive Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle VHDX files.

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