SLN File Extension

What is SLN file?

SLN is a project file format associated with Microsoft Visual Studio. SLN files are known collectively as solution files. Solution is a type of project organization technology that can encompass multiple different projects not necessary related logically or thematically. Solutions are typically used by software developers.

Advantages of solutions

Solutions allow users to created special types of templates that can be reused across multiple project. Projects stored in SLN files can share resources and settings with other projects even if they are compiled as separate projects.

Programs which support SLN file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open SLN files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with SLN 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: 07/10/2022

How to open file with SLN extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening SLN files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with SLN extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with SLN files.

Step 1. Get the Microsoft Visual Studio

Problems with opening and working with SLN files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with SLN files being present on your machine. The most obvious solution is to download and install Microsoft Visual Studio or one to the listed programs: MonoDevelop, FinalBuilder, Microsoft Expression Blend. 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 Microsoft Visual Studio 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 Microsoft Visual Studio

You still cannot access SLN files although Microsoft Visual Studio 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. The reason that Microsoft Visual Studio cannot handle files with SLN may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of Microsoft Visual Studio is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open SLN files to Microsoft Visual Studio

After installing Microsoft Visual Studio (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open SLN 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 SLN 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 Microsoft Visual Studio is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open SLN files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the SLN file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• 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 SLN extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the SLN is not faulty

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 SLN file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the SLN file for viruses or malware

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the SLN file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the SLN file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the SLN file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

If the SLN file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with SLN extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Microsoft Visual Studio

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

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Visual Studio Solution Format file. It may be the case that the SLN files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the SLN file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on SLN file.