PDB File Extension

What is PDB file?

PDB is a generic file that contains a database for a program. PDB files are used for storing data in a structured form, usually debugging information or module data (DLL or EXE).

Debugging information

Debug symbols stored in PDB files are used by given program to relay important information about exceptions, and are helpful during program troubleshooting and error addressing.

How PDB files are created?

PDB files are typically generated from source files during compilation process. Such files are commonly created with programs that use Just-In-Time compilation. PDB files work with specific programs and are saved in proprietary format, and thus cannot be imported by other applications.

Programs which support PDB file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with PDB files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. PDB files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 11/12/2021

How to open file with PDB extension?

Being unable to open files with PDB extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Program Database files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Intuit Quicken

Problems with opening and working with PDB files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with PDB files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select Intuit Quicken or one of the recommended programs (for example, Quicken Essentials, Microsoft Visual Studio) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support PDB files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Intuit Quicken website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Intuit Quicken

You still cannot access PDB files although Intuit Quicken 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. If you have an older version of Intuit Quicken installed, it may not support PDB format. The latest version of Intuit Quicken should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Program Database files with Intuit Quicken

After installing Intuit Quicken (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open PDB files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the PDB file and choose 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 Intuit Quicken is installed, check the Always use this app to open PDB files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the PDB file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Intuit Quicken and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with PDB extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the PDB is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the PDB file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the PDB in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the PDB is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the PDB file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

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

Did you receive the PDB file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with PDB extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

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

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Program Database file again.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Intuit Quicken

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

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Program Database 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 PDB files affecting older versions of given software.

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