SYS File Extension

What is SYS file?

The SYS extension indicates system files used in Windows and MS-DOS operating systems. Such files include data regarding changeable drivers, devices’ settings and other functions. Without SYS files, operating of a system would be impossible because they enable communication between Windows system, devices and external devices.

Typical SYS files

The most common type of SYS files is CONFIG.SYS. It well known because it contains all information and configurations of driver’s performance necessary to run MS-DOS. Other SYS files are:

• MSDOS.SYS – Contains basic code of DOS system, called the DOS kernel.
• IO.SYS – contains standard DOS drivers and a program responsible for start of DOS. It is used in DOS and Windows 9x.
• KEYBOARD.SYS – contains information about keyboard layout.

Location of SYS files

A large part of SYS files within system is hidden. Usually they can be found in main Windows folder, and in Vista version and newer, SYS files are usually found in Windows system32 drivers and Windows WinSxS.

Additional information

1. SYS files can be used in Mac environment provided Windows system is installed.
2. SYS files are stored as text files in binary format.
3. SYS files are sensitive to any virus infections and malicious software effects.

Programs which support SYS file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open SYS files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with SYS extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 11/02/2019

How to open file with SYS extension?

Problems with accessing SYS may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with SYS extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Microsoft Windows software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening SYS files is that no program that can handle SYS files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft Windows or one of the recommended programs (for example, Parallels Desktop) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support SYS 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 Microsoft Windows website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update Microsoft Windows to the latest version

You still cannot access SYS files although Microsoft Windows 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 Windows cannot handle files with SYS 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 Microsoft Windows.

Step 3. Associate Windows System Format files with Microsoft Windows

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

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

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

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected SYS file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Microsoft Windows and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with SYS extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the SYS file is complete and free of errors

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 SYS file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

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

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the SYS 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. SYS file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

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

If you obtained the problematic SYS file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. 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. When downloading the file with SYS extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access 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 Windows System Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Microsoft Windows

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with SYS extension. In this case close the other applications.

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

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Windows System Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle SYS files.

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