VSD File Extension

What is VSD file?

File with VSD extension contains drawings and diagrams created using Microsoft Visio and saved in binary format. VSD uses lossless compression algorithm similar to LZW. VSD is a proprietary format; it was replaced by VDX format in 2010, and by VSDX and VSDM in 2013. VSD was a native format for projects created with Visio until 2013, but it is still supported be the program. VSD diagram can consist of elements and data that conform to the following standards:

• UML – Unified Modeling Language,
• BPMN – Busines s Process Model and Notation,
• IEEE – Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

Diagrams can be created based on many existing templates and data resources from other Microsoft applications – Excel, SQL Server, SharePoint, etc. More advanced templates and template merging option is available only in Professional version of Visio. VSD file can store:

• Block diagrams,
• Process map,
• Organizational structure,
• Timeline,
• IT architecture design,
• Floor layout,

and many other diagrams. VSD is a properietary format and as such can only be opened using dedicated programs and VSD viewers. Diagram image can be exported into other popular format and shared.

Programs which support VSD file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open VSD files divided into 4 categories according to system platform supported. Files with VSD 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: 10/15/2019

How to open file with VSD extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening VSD files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with VSD 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 CorelDRAW

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports VSD files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select CorelDRAW or one of the recommended programs (for example, LibreOffice, Microsoft Visio, Microsoft Visio 2010: Visio Viewer) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading CorelDRAW installed is by going to developer’s website (Corel Corporation) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of CorelDRAW and update if needed

If you already have CorelDRAW installed on your systems and VSD 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 CorelDRAW installed, it may not support VSD 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 CorelDRAW.

Step 3. Assign CorelDRAW to VSD files

After installing CorelDRAW (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open VSD files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the VSD 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
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where CorelDRAW is installed, check the Always use this app to open VSD 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 VSD file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select CorelDRAW and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with VSD extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the VSD is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the VSD file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

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

Should it happed that the VSD is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the VSD 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 VSD file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with VSD extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

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. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run CorelDRAW

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support VSD files. Close all running programs and try opening the VSD file.

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Visio Drawing 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 VSD files.

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