WIM File Extension

What is WIM file?

WIM (Windows Imaging Format) file is a disk image file. The format was introduced by Microsoft along with Windows Vista operating system.

WIM file capabilities

WIM image files are usd by Windows Server 2008 and Windows Vista during the system installation process – they were originally designed for that specific purpose. WIM file allows single disk image to be deployed on multiple operating systems. They enable users to manage various system elements, for example, updates, drivers, and components without the need for running the system image.

A single WIM can hold several disk images, which can be then mounted in Windows as separate volumes. An Wim file can be run as separate machine if it is a system disk image.

Compression and SIS technology

WIM file format is file-based, which means it can utilize Single-Instance Storage (SIS) technology to store duplicate files only once. WIM image file offers 3 compression levels: LZX (maximum compression), XPRESS (maximum speed).

WIM image file structure

• „WIM Header” – describes file contents and metadata,
• „File Resources” – source files and other data packages,
• „Metadata Resource” – contains information regarding other files,
• „Lookup Table” – holds information about location of resource files,
• „XML Data” – additional information about the disc image,
• „Integrity Table” – information regarding file security.

Programs which support WIM file extension

The following listing features WIM-compatible programs. Files with WIM 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: 01/17/2020

How to open file with WIM extension?

Being unable to open files with WIM extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with WIM files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with WIM files.

Step 1. Download and install WinMount

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening WIM files is that no program that can handle WIM files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select WinMount or one of the recommended programs (for example, PeaZip, 7-Zip) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support WIM files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download WinMount installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit WinMount International Inc. website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update WinMount to the latest version

If the problems with opening WIM files still occur even after installing WinMount, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of WinMount is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. This can be one of the causes why WIM files are not compatible with WinMount. The latest version of WinMount should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open WIM files to WinMount

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate WIM files with latest version of WinMount 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

• Clicking the WIM with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where WinMount is installed, check the Always use this app to open WIM files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with WIM extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select WinMount and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with WIM extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the WIM file is complete and free of errors

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

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

Should it happed that the WIM is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the WIM file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. WIM file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

Did you receive the WIM file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. 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. It could happen the the download process of file with WIM extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

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 WinMount

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

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Windows Imaging Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle WIM files.

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