VSW file icon

VSW File Extension

Visio Workspace Format

What is VSW file?

Full format name of files that use VSW extension is Visio Workspace Format. Microsoft defined the Visio Workspace Format format standard. VSW file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Windows system platform. VSW file format, along with 1305 other file formats, belongs to the Settings Files category. Users are advised to use Microsoft Visio software for managing VSW files, although 1 other programs can also handle this type of file. Microsoft Visio software was developed by Microsoft Corporation, and on its official website you may find more information about VSW files or the Microsoft Visio software program.

Programs which support VSW file extension

Programs that can handle VSW files are as follows. Files with VSW suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Programs that support VSW file

How to open file with VSW extension?

Problems with accessing VSW may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with VSW extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with VSW files.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Visio software

Install software to open VSW file Problems with opening and working with VSW files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with VSW files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Visio or one to the listed programs: Microsoft Office. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Microsoft Visio website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Microsoft Visio

Update software that support file extension VSWYou still cannot access VSW files although Microsoft Visio is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. 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 VSW files are not compatible with Microsoft Visio. The latest version of Microsoft Visio should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open VSW 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 VSW 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.

Associate software with VSW file on Windows

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

  • Right-click the VSW file and choose Open with option
  • Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
  • To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Microsoft Visio installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open VSW files box and clicking OK button.
Associate software with VSW file on Mac

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

  • By clicking right mouse button on the selected VSW file open the file menu and choose Information
  • Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
  • 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 VSW extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the VSW for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper VSW file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

Check VSW file for viruses
1. The VSW may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the VSW is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. 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 VSW file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the VSW file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the VSW 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 VSW extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

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 Microsoft Visio

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

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Visio Workspace 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 VSW files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the VSW 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 VSW file.

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