DSW File Extension

What is DSW file?

Full format name of files that use DSW extension is Visual C++ 6 Workspace Format. Microsoft defined the Visual C++ 6 Workspace Format format standard. DSW files are supported by software applications available for devices running Windows. DSW file format, along with 1305 other file formats, belongs to the Settings Files category. Users are advised to use Microsoft Visual Studio software for managing DSW files, although 1 other programs can also handle this type of file. Software named Microsoft Visual Studio was created by Microsoft Corporation. In order to find more detailed information on the software and DSW files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support DSW file extension

The following listing features DSW-compatible programs. Files with DSW 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 DSW extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening DSW files on given system. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Visual C++ 6 Workspace Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the Microsoft Visual Studio

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports DSW files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Visual Studio or one to the listed programs: Borland C++. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support DSW files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download Microsoft Visual Studio installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Check the version of Microsoft Visual Studio and update if needed

You still cannot access DSW files although Microsoft Visual Studio 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 DSW files are not compatible with Microsoft Visual Studio. The latest version of Microsoft Visual Studio should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Visual C++ 6 Workspace Format files with Microsoft Visual Studio

After installing Microsoft Visual Studio (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open DSW files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the DSW 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 Visual Studio is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open DSW files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected DSW file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with DSW extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the DSW is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the DSW file is valid. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the DSW file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the DSW is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the DSW file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the DSW 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. It could happen the the download process of file with DSW 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

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Microsoft Visual Studio

If the systems has insufficient resources to open DSW 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 Visual C++ 6 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 DSW files affecting older versions of given software.

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