VSX File Extension

What is VSX file?

VSX is a file extension commonly associated with Visio Stencil XML Format files. Visio Stencil XML Format specification was created by Microsoft. Files with VSX extension may be used by programs distributed for Mac OS, Windows platform. VSX file belongs to the Data Files category just like 1326 other filename extensions listed in our database. Users are advised to use Microsoft Visio software for managing VSX files, although 2 other programs can also handle this type of file. Software named Microsoft Visio was created by Microsoft Corporation. In order to find more detailed information on the software and VSX files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support VSX file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 2 operating systems that support VSX files. Files with VSX 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.

How to open file with VSX extension?

Being unable to open files with VSX extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with VSX files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Microsoft Visio

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports VSX files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Visio or one of the recommended programs (for example, OmniGraffle, 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. If you want to download Microsoft Visio installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Visio to the latest version

If the problems with opening VSX files still occur even after installing Microsoft Visio, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Microsoft Visio 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 VSX files are not compatible with Microsoft Visio. The most recent version of Microsoft Visio is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open VSX files to Microsoft Visio

If you have the latest version of Microsoft Visio installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage VSX on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Change the default application in Windows

• Clicking the VSX with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the 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 Microsoft Visio is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open VSX files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the VSX file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Microsoft Visio and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with VSX extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the VSX for errors

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

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the VSX file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the VSX file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic VSX file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. 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 VSX 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

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system 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 Microsoft Visio

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

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Visio Stencil XML Format files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with VSX files affecting older versions of given software.

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