HM File Extension

What is HM file?

HM filename suffix is mostly used for Windows Help Context IDs files. Windows Help Context IDs specification was created by Microsoft Corporation. HM file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Windows system platform. HM file format, along with 6033 other file formats, belongs to the Misc Files category. The software recommended for managing HM files is Visual C++. Visual C++ software was developed by Microsoft Corporation, and on its official website you may find more information about HM files or the Visual C++ software program.

Programs which support HM file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support HM files. Files with HM 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 HM extension?

Being unable to open files with HM extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with HM extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Visual C++ software

Problems with opening and working with HM files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with HM files being present on your machine. To address this issue, go to the Visual C++ developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download Visual C++ installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Microsoft Corporation website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Visual C++

If the problems with opening HM files still occur even after installing Visual C++, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Visual C++ is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Visual C++ cannot handle files with HM may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Visual C++.

Step 3. Set the default application to open HM files to Visual C++

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

Change the default application in Windows

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

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the HM file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with HM extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Check the HM for errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the HM file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the HM file for viruses or malware

If the HM is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the HM file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the HM file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic HM file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the HM file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Windows Help Context IDs file.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Visual C++

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support HM files. Close all running programs and try opening the HM 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 Help Context IDs files. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with HM files affecting older versions of given software.

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