WMD File Extension

What is WMD file?

Full format name of files that use WMD extension is Windows Media Download Package. Windows Media Download Package specification was created by Microsoft. Files with WMD extension may be used by programs distributed for Windows platform. WMD file format, along with 546 other file formats, belongs to the Video Files category. The most popular software that supports WMD files is Windows Media Player. Software named Windows Media Player was created by Microsoft Corporation. In order to find more detailed information on the software and WMD files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support WMD file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support WMD files. Files with WMD suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

How to open file with WMD extension?

Being unable to open files with WMD extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Windows Media Download Package files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with WMD files.

Step 1. Install Windows Media Player software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports WMD files installed on the system. The solution to this problem is very simple. Download Windows Media Player and install it on your device. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download Windows Media Player installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Windows Media Player to the latest version

You still cannot access WMD files although Windows Media Player is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of Windows Media Player installed, it may not support WMD format. The most recent version of Windows Media Player is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Windows Media Download Package files with Windows Media Player

After installing Windows Media Player (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open WMD files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the WMD 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 Windows Media Player installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open WMD files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with WMD extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select Windows Media Player and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with WMD extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the WMD file is complete and free of 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 WMD file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

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

If the WMD 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 WMD file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the WMD file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the WMD file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

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 Windows Media Download Package file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Windows Media Player

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

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Windows Media Download Package files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle WMD files.

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