VID File Extension

What is VID file?

VID is a video file. VID extension is a generic video extension (sometimes called a file mask) that affects how the original file format is seen by various programs. Masking allows such files to be opened with multimedia applications which for some reason might not support given video format. Changing the file extensions does not change the file’s contents and can be easily reversed. The main use of this extensions is to allow older multimedia programs to open less popular video formats.

Other uses of VID files

VID extension is also used as a means of standardizing video project files or for other video-editing related purposes. Such practice is not considered an industry standard.

Programs which support VID file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open VID files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with VID 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.

Updated: 07/11/2022

How to open file with VID extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening VID files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Generic Video Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install QuickTime Player

Problems with opening and working with VID files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with VID files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select QuickTime Player or one of the recommended programs (for example, Windows Media Player) 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 QuickTime Player website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update QuickTime Player to the latest version

If you already have QuickTime Player installed on your systems and VID 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 QuickTime Player installed, it may not support VID 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 QuickTime Player.

Step 3. Associate Generic Video Format files with QuickTime Player

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

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the VID file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where QuickTime Player is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open VID files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the VID file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with VID extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the VID for errors

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

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

Should it happed that the VID is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the VID file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the VID 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. If the VID 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. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open QuickTime Player

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

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Generic Video 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 VID files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the VID file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on VID file.