DS_STORE File Extension

What is DS_STORE file?

File with.DS_STORE extension contains viewing preferences for folder in which the file is stored. It is a hidden file used in Mac OS systems, similar to desktop.ini file used in Microsoft Windows systems. DS_STORE file doesn’t have any filename, it starts with a comma character which makes it hidden is placed in a folder with default view settings. Folder settings, that is metadata that can be stored in DS_STORE files are as follows:

• Size and position of icons,
• Window position relative to the screen,
• Selected view,
• Information used by other applications (Mac OS 10.4 and later), for example Spotlight.

Name DS_STORE stands for Desktop Services Store. DS_STORE files are created and updated by system application tool Finder. DS_STORE file can be safely deleted and doing so will restore default folder settings and Finder will automatically create new DS_STORE file. The file is also created on removable storage devices such as pendrives. For remote file systems to which Mac OS has access DS_STORE files are also generated by default, but this option can be turned off. Moreover, DS_STORE files are created for file archives and will appear in unpacked folders even in different operating system, but they won’ t be used.

Programs which support DS_STORE file extension

The following listing features DS_STORE-compatible programs. Files with DS_STORE 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: 02/22/2023

How to open file with DS_STORE extension?

Being unable to open files with DS_STORE extension can be have various origins. Fortunately, most common problems with DS_STORE files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the Mac OS X

Problems with opening and working with DS_STORE files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with DS_STORE files being present on your machine. The solution is straightforward, just download and install Mac OS X. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Mac OS X website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Mac OS X

You still cannot access DS_STORE files although Mac OS X is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Mac OS X cannot handle files with DS_STORE may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Mac OS X should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Mac OS X Folder Settings Format files with Mac OS X

If you have the latest version of Mac OS X installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage DS_STORE on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the DS_STORE file and choose 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 Mac OS X is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open DS_STORE files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the DS_STORE file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select Mac OS X and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with DS_STORE extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the DS_STORE is not faulty

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

1. The DS_STORE 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 DS_STORE file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the DS_STORE file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

If the DS_STORE 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. When downloading the file with DS_STORE extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Mac OS X Folder Settings Format file again.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Mac OS X

If the systems has insufficient resources to open DS_STORE 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 Mac OS X Folder Settings Format files. It may be the case that the DS_STORE files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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