VIM File Extension

What is VIM file?

VIM is a file extension commonly associated with Vim Settings Format files. Files with VIM extension may be used by programs distributed for Linux, Mac OS, Windows platform. VIM file format, along with 1305 other file formats, belongs to the Settings Files category. The most popular program for handling VIM files is gVim, but users can choose among 3 different programs that support this file format.

Programs which support VIM file extension

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

How to open file with VIM extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening VIM files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with VIM extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the gVim

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports VIM files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select gVim or one of the recommended programs (for example, MacVim, Vim) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support VIM 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 gVim website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of gVim

If you already have gVim installed on your systems and VIM files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. 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 VIM files are not compatible with gVim. The latest version of gVim should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign gVim to VIM files

If you have the latest version of gVim installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage VIM on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the VIM with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the gVim installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open VIM files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• Right-click the VIM file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select gVim and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with VIM extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the VIM is not faulty

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

1. Check the VIM file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the VIM 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 VIM file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

If you obtained the problematic VIM file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. 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. When downloading the file with VIM extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

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 Vim Settings Format file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run gVim

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with VIM 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 Vim Settings Format files. It may be the case that the VIM files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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